The Sacramento Cares Program at Sacramento State University provides a vital safety net for students facing housing insecurity and financial hardship. This program offers a range of services, from emergency housing and rapid rehousing to financial grants and rent subsidies, ensuring students can focus on their education without the added stress of housing instability. This guide outlines the key components of the Sacramento Cares program, eligibility requirements, and application processes.
Emergency Housing Options at Sac State
Sacramento Cares offers two primary emergency housing options: short-term emergency housing and rapid rehousing.
Short-Term Emergency Housing
This program provides up to 30 days of housing in residence halls for students experiencing a sudden, unexpected housing crisis. It’s a one-time resource available per student during their academic career. Availability is limited to four beds and is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, prioritizing students with the greatest need. A case manager screens applicants and maintains a waitlist when beds are unavailable.
Eligibility for Short-Term Housing:
- Currently enrolled Sacramento State student
- Minimum six-unit enrollment (priority for full-time students)
- Case-by-case review for students with conduct history
- Mandatory weekly meetings with a case manager
- No additional family members or pets (service animals and ESAs allowed with documentation)
- Ability to cohabitate with a roommate
Rapid Rehousing (RRH)
The Rapid Rehousing program offers transitional housing for 3-6 months in master-leased apartments for students experiencing homelessness or facing imminent homelessness. This program aims to stabilize students’ housing, academics, and overall well-being through case management and support services. Participants pay $500 monthly rent, attend weekly meetings with CARES and Community-Based Organization (CBO) case managers, and adhere to house rules. Initial leases are for three months, with potential month-to-month extensions for up to three additional months based on program participation.
Eligibility for Rapid Rehousing:
- Currently enrolled Sacramento State student
- Enrolled in a minimum of 12 units (undergraduate) or 6 units (graduate)
- Experiencing homelessness or at immediate risk
- No additional family members or pets (service animals and ESAs allowed with documentation)
- Employment and ability to pay monthly rent
- Ability to cohabitate with roommates
- Bi-weekly case management meetings focused on securing permanent housing
Financial Assistance Through Sacramento Cares
Sacramento Cares provides several financial grant options to support students in need.
Eviction Avoidance Grant
This grant offers up to $1,500 to prevent students facing eviction. Funds may take 2-3 weeks to disburse after approval and impact financial aid and cost of attendance.
Eligibility for Eviction Avoidance Grant:
- Currently enrolled in a degree-seeking program
- Enrolled in 6 units
- Minimum 2.0 GPA
- Documentation of eviction notice (pay or quit, unlawful detainer, etc.)
Move-In Support Grant
This grant helps students starting new leases by providing up to $1,500 for security deposits and first month’s rent. Funds may be disbursed after initial expenses, acting as reimbursement. Similar to the Eviction Avoidance Grant, this grant impacts financial aid and cost of attendance.
Eligibility for Move-In Support Grant:
- Currently enrolled in a degree-seeking program
- Enrolled in 6 units
- Minimum 2.0 GPA
- Documentation of lease agreement showing total cost of security deposit and first month’s rent
Rent Subsidy Program: Addressing Ongoing Housing Instability
The Rent Subsidy program assists students with a history of late or partial rent payments who face unanticipated financial hardship. The program provides three months of partial rental assistance paid directly to the property manager. Enrollment can take 3-4 weeks, and the property manager must agree to participate.
Eligibility for Rent Subsidy:
- History of late or partial rent payments (e.g., three-day notice, eviction filings)
- Documented unanticipated financial hardship
- Currently enrolled in a degree-seeking program
- Full-time enrollment (12 units undergraduate, 6 units graduate)
- Minimum 2.0 GPA
- Employment
- One-time enrollment in the program
- Completion of a Financial Wellness Center advising session
Applying for Sacramento Cares Programs
To apply for any Sacramento Cares program, students must schedule a screening meeting with a case manager through the Student Health and Counseling Services portal. Specific appointment types are designated for each program (Emergency Housing, Emergency & Rapid Rehousing, Emergency Grants, Rent Subsidy).
Conclusion: Sacramento Cares: A Lifeline for Students
The Sacramento Cares program offers comprehensive support for Sacramento State students facing housing insecurity and financial challenges. Its multifaceted approach, encompassing emergency housing, financial aid, and case management, helps students overcome immediate crises and build a foundation for long-term stability. By addressing basic needs, Sacramento Cares empowers students to succeed academically and personally. Students are encouraged to seek assistance promptly through the designated appointment scheduling process.
