San Diego County expands rental subsidy program for seniors

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — A pilot shallow rental subsidy program for older adults has been expanded to include another 160 individuals at risk of homelessness in San Diego.

The County of San Diego Department of Homeless Solutions and Equitable Communities’ program is targeted toward at-risk residents over the age of 55. It provides them with a $500 monthly rental subsidy for 18 months, according to the county, and will go directly to their landlords.

Previously, there were 222 households selected for the original pilot program that launched early last year.

The county is currently accepting applications for the rental subsidy program and participants will be chosen randomly.

To be eligible, individuals must meet the following requirements:

• Be a San Diego resident 55 years or older at risk of homelessness.
• Have a household income at or below 50% of the Area Median Income .
• Be severely rent burdened, paying more than 50% of your income toward housing costs.
• Have a lease or rental agreement in your name and a landlord willing to participate in the program.
• Not be receiving funds from another rental subsidy program.
• Sign consent forms to participate in the program and an evaluation.

According to the 2023 Point-in-Time Count , people over the age of 55 make up nearly 30% of the region’s homeless population.

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