The Ohio Development Services Agency is now distributing $100 million in federal funding to help low-income Ohioans who do not own their own home by: paying their rent, water, sewer, wastewater, electric, gas, oil and/or trash removal bills.

Ohioans can apply for assistance with outstanding balances dating back to March 13, 2020, assistance for future rent/utility payments once back bills have been made current, and assistance for three months at a time.

Eligible Ohio households must:

• Be at or below 80% of their county’s Area Median Income (varies by county and size of household);

• Have experienced a financial hardship due to COVID-19; and

• Demonstrate a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability

The funding, which was approved by the Ohio Controlling Board for distribution will be divided among Ohio’s 47 Community Action Agencies. Ohioans can apply for assistance by contacting their local Community Action Agency. A list of agencies can be found at https://businesshelp.ohio.gov/ under Home Relief Grants. 

The Portage County Community Action Agency is:

Service Area: Portage County
Community Action Council of Portage County
1036 West Main Street
PO Box 917
Ravenna, Ohio 44266
(330) 297-1456

Please take advantage of this and if you are struggling and need assistance please reach out to us. Your Randolph Trustees are always happy to help you!