The Clark County Social Service is now accepting applications for the CARES Housing Assistance Program (CHAP). If you are a resident of Clark County, Nevada, and have experienced financial difficulties due to the COVID-19 emergency, CHAP may be able to provide you with crucial housing assistance.
Understanding the CARES Housing Assistance Program (CHAP)
CHAP is designed to support Clark County residents who are facing housing instability as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic. This program recognizes the significant financial hardships many individuals and families have endured and aims to provide a safety net for those struggling to meet their housing obligations. The core mission of the CARES Housing Assistance Program is to offer vital support to those who have suffered income loss or reduced resources, making it difficult to pay for essential housing costs.
It’s important to note that the level of assistance provided through CHAP is contingent upon the availability of funds from the CARES Act grant and is determined through an individual household assessment. Prospective applicants should be aware that applications will be accepted until all program funds are exhausted. Therefore, if you believe you are eligible, it is advisable to apply as soon as possible.
Eligibility for Clark County’s Housing Assistance Program
To be eligible for the CARES Housing Assistance Program in Clark County, Nevada, applicants must meet specific criteria. Firstly, applicants must be current residents of Clark County. Crucially, they must also be able to demonstrate how they have been directly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. This impact typically involves financial hardship such as job loss, reduced work hours, or significant income reduction.
However, it’s important to understand who is ineligible for CHAP. Individuals who are already receiving housing subsidies from other rental assistance programs or those residing in public housing are not eligible for CHAP. This is to ensure that the limited funds are directed to those who are not already receiving housing assistance.
Required Documentation for CHAP Application
When applying for the CARES Housing Assistance Program, it is essential to provide the necessary documentation to determine your eligibility. While this list is not exhaustive, it outlines the key documents you will likely need to submit:
Proof of Identity:
- A valid Photo ID is required to verify your identity.
Proof of COVID-19 Impact (You need to provide at least one of the following):
- Pay Stubs: Submit at least two recent pay stubs that clearly show a reduction in your income compared to pre-COVID earnings.
- Unemployment Benefits Confirmation: Provide documentation confirming your unemployment benefits, such as a copy of a check or an official confirmation letter from the unemployment agency.
- Employer Statement: A statement from your employer detailing the impact of COVID-19 on your employment, such as reduced hours or job loss, can serve as proof.
Lease Agreement:
- You must provide a copy of your current lease agreement to verify your rental obligations and housing costs.
Proof of Need:
- Landlord Verification Form: A Landlord Verification Form, which will be provided by your CHAP Provider, needs to be completed by your landlord.
- Default Letter: If you have received a default letter from your landlord due to unpaid rent, you should include this as part of your documentation.
- Utility Bill: A utility bill can serve as additional proof of need. However, it is important to note that utility bills payable to governmental entities are not accepted.
Apply for CHAP Today
If you believe you meet the eligibility requirements and can provide the necessary documentation, you are encouraged to apply for the CARES Housing Assistance Program as soon as possible. You can access the Clark County Social Service (CCSS) CHAP Application portal directly at: https://chap.clarkcountynv.gov/
Do not delay in seeking the assistance you need. The CARES Housing Assistance Program is here to help Clark County residents navigate these challenging times.
