PRESS RELEASE

MAYOR VIEAU ANNOUNCES City Of Chicopee’s Rental Assistance Program

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - July 30, 2020

CHICOPEE – Mayor Vieau announced the release of the City’s Rental Assistance Program designed to assist property owners and renters who have been impacted by COVID-19.  The City through the Community Development Department has allocated $250,000 from federal HOME Partnership funds. The federal funds require that the property owner be in good standing with the City, that the residential rental unit be in good condition, and the occupant be a low-income person who has had their income impacted by the pandemic.  The program enrollment form for interested rental property owners is posted at http://chicopeema.gov/DocumentCenter/View/10594/Emegency-Rental-Assistance-ProgramProperty-Owner-Application

“The pandemic has created a challenge for both landlords and tenants” stated Mayor Vieau. “We have property owners who are anxious about the ability to pay their property expenses. We have renters without sufficient income to pay the rent owed. While the City does not have adequate resources to completely resolve this problem, our program should provide some relief.” 

Property Owners must enroll in the program after which eligible tenants may apply for up to two months of rental payments. Payments will be made directly to the Property Owner. 

Due to the complexity of federal regulations, the City recognizes that not all properties or tenants will be eligible. The Valley Opportunity Council is providing additional assistance directly to impacted residents.  Interested renters may call VOC directly at 413-534-2466.

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