SPREAD THE WORD

Every one of us has a friend, family member, or colleague who is struggling with their housing payment. Unfortunately, many are going through this fight alone, too embarrassed to talk about it. You can help. Sharing this information can save someone’s home.   

 

Rentful Works

A home is more than bricks and sticks, a home is your safe place. Watch the story of how Central Ohio’s partners came together to help one local grandmother save her home.

How to talk to someone that’s struggling

It can be difficult or uncomfortable to talk about financial matters with family and friends. But research suggests that only half of renters know that help is out there. Sharing what you know can save someone’s home. Here are some tips that can help make these hard conversation less stressful.

 

Share resources on your Facebook page or other social media feeds

Making reliable information, like the Rentful pictures on this page, available to everyone equally ensures that no one feels “called out” or embarrassed.

Remember not everyone can see Rentful

If you own a business or work at a nonprofit, consider printing out the pictures above and posting them on your bulletin boards for those who don’t have internet access. Many rent assistance organizations accept applications on the phone and in-person appointments, you can share their contact information with seniors and other who may struggle to use the computer.

Let people know they are not alone

The fact is that a lot of people are struggling right now. In fact, 40% of Ohio’s renters are worried they may be evicted in the coming months. Hiding from this will not help us get stronger.

Remind people that this crisis wasn’t their fault

The pandemic and the economic disruptions that followed were a financial challenge for most American families, which is why these resources were created. Like any other national disaster, people are entitled to pursue the resources they need to recover.

Encourage friends to try again

 Some people applied for rent help when the pandemic occurred and were denied because the aid programs that existed at the time were not designed for the unique challenges this economy posed. New programs now exist that are more flexible and customized for this crisis. If someone was previously denied help, the should consider reapplying.