Addressing Racial Disparities in Chicago’s Emergency Rental Assistance Applications During COVID-19
Introduction
The job loss associated with COVID-19 led to a sudden and substantial increase in the number of low-income residents unable to make their rent payments. In Chicago, an increasing share of renters were at risk of losing housing. As the need for rental assistance accelerated in the spring of 2020, the City’s Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) received an additional $15 million in federal CARES Act funding, allowing them to significantly expand the reach of their Rental Assistance Program. In addition to transitioning to an online application system to increase overall access to rental assistance during quarantine, DFSS took the steps described in this brief to specifically address disparities in access for priority populations.
More Research & Insights
Preventing Child Welfare Contact
Investing in Culturally Responsive Services: Lessons from Washington State
Strengthening Alternative 911 Emergency Response