How to Get Housing Help in West Virginia

Finding affordable and stable housing in West Virginia can be a challenge, especially for individuals and families facing financial difficulties. Fortunately, there are a variety of programs and resources available throughout the state to provide support. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to access housing help in West Virginia, including examples of specific locations and services.

1. Contact Local Community Action Agencies (CAAs)

Community Action Agencies are vital resources for housing support in West Virginia. They provide emergency rental assistance, housing counseling, and other services aimed at helping low-income residents.

Examples of CAAs in West Virginia:

• Mountain CAP of West Virginia (serving central counties, including Buckhannon and Weston).
• Change, Inc. (serving the northern panhandle, including Weirton and Wheeling).
• Eastern WV Community Action Agency (serving counties like Jefferson, Berkeley, and Morgan).

How to Get Help: Visit the West Virginia Community Action Partnership website to locate the nearest CAA or call their hotline for guidance.

2. Apply for the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP)

The West Virginia Emergency Rental Assistance Program provides financial support to renters who are struggling due to COVID-19-related hardships. The program covers past-due rent, future rent payments, and utilities.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Household income must not exceed 80% of the area median income (AMI).
• Proof of financial hardship caused by the pandemic.
• Risk of homelessness or housing instability.

Where to Apply: Applications can be submitted online through the West Virginia Housing Development Fund (WVHDF) portal or by contacting local offices in Charleston, Huntington, or Morgantown.

3. Seek Help from Faith-Based and Nonprofit Organizations

Faith-based groups and nonprofit organizations play a crucial role in providing housing assistance across West Virginia.

Examples of Organizations:

• Catholic Charities West Virginia: Offers rent assistance, utility payments, and eviction prevention programs in locations like Parkersburg and Fairmont.
• United Way of Central West Virginia: Provides connections to housing resources in cities like Charleston and South Charleston.
• The Salvation Army: Operates in multiple locations, including Beckley and Bluefield, offering emergency rent assistance and temporary shelter.

How to Get Help: Contact the nearest office of these organizations to learn about their programs and application processes.

4. Explore Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers

The Section 8 program assists low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities by subsidizing rent payments for privately owned housing.

Administering Agencies:

• Charleston-Kanawha Housing Authority: Covers Charleston and surrounding areas.
• Huntington Housing Authority: Serves Huntington and neighboring communities.
• Clarksburg-Harrison Housing Authority: Assists residents in northern West Virginia.

How to Apply: Contact your local housing authority for application details. Note that waitlists may be lengthy due to high demand.

5. Get Legal Assistance for Housing Issues

Legal Aid of West Virginia provides free legal services to renters facing eviction, housing discrimination, or landlord-tenant disputes.

Services Offered:

• Eviction defense.
• Help with lease agreements.
• Guidance on housing rights.

How to Contact: Legal Aid offices are available in cities like Martinsburg, Princeton, and Elkins. Visit their website or call their hotline for assistance.

6. Check City and County-Specific Programs

Many local governments in West Virginia offer rental assistance programs tailored to the needs of their residents.

Examples:

• Morgantown Rental Assistance Program: Provides emergency housing funds to renters in Morgantown and Monongalia County.
• Berkeley County Housing Assistance Program: Offers support for rent and utilities in Martinsburg and surrounding areas.

How to Get Help: Contact your city or county housing office for more information about available programs.

7. Apply for Utility Assistance Programs

Utility assistance programs like the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) can help reduce utility costs, freeing up funds for rent payments.

How to Apply: Applications for LIHEAP are managed by the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR). Local DHHR offices are located in cities like Clarksburg, Logan, and Oak Hill.

Conclusion

Housing help in West Virginia is accessible through a combination of state-run programs, local organizations, and community efforts. Whether you’re seeking rental assistance, legal aid, or utility support, there are resources available across the state, from Charleston to Martinsburg. Take advantage of these programs to secure stable and affordable housing for you and your family.