Second Chance Program

New York State set aside $100 million to provide rental supplements to individuals and families experiencing homelessness or who are facing an imminent loss of housing, regardless of immigration status. St. Paul’s Center administers the program for Rensselaer County.

The current focus for assistance is individuals or families:

  • Are currently homeless or received a notice of eviction
  • Are not receiving rental assistance from another source including from Rens.Co. DSS
  • Have household income no more than 30% of the Area Median Income (see graphic below)

To qualify:

  • Complete the program application
  • Provide proof of income for the household
  • Housing must be in Rensselaer County  

Your commitment to the program:

  • 30% of your household income will go toward monthly rent
  • The household will recertify yearly providing required documentation

Other information:

  • Rental assistance will be provided until the household’s income reaches 30% or more of their monthly rent, at which point the housing is considered affordable and the supplement will end
  • This is not a long-term program for rental assistance, like Section 8 or Public Housing vouchers
  • Those in need of long-term assistance may use this program as they apply for other assistance
  • Support services are not provided through this program

Interested in applying, send the fully completed application along with income documentation to Charlee Stead, [email protected]. Feel free to share with Charlee any questions you may have.

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