The Monroe County Opportunity Program (MCOP) offers a number of housing programs. Two of these programs include:
Rental Assistance Program – This program helps residents apply for rental assistance. Individuals will receive a decision notice once they fill out and submit a State of Emergency Relief (SER) form through the DHS. Other guidelines exist. Qualifications and contact information can be found on the website.
Housing Assistance for Veterans – Through their Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program, assistance to low-income vets will help prevent eviction and assist homeless vets moving into an apartment. To qualify, the veteran must be a Monroe County resident, honorably discharged with a household income less than 50% of area median income, and currently be homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. Contact Tim Imber at MCOP or check the website for more information.
Looking for Section 8 housing?
Monroe County’s Housing Agent is Dagmar McKinney. Dagmar holds office hours at Monroe’s DHS office on the fourth Wednesday of each month beginning at 10:00 a.m. She is able to assist those looking for Section 8 housing.
Other Michigan and Federal Housing Agencies
Michigan’s Department of Human Resources (DHS)
Among their services, DHS works with the Michigan State Housing Development Authority to provide a program called A Step Forward. The program assists homeowners who have had financial hardship. Go to the website and watch a video to see what is available through this agency. The DHS website also offers a Housing Locator that searches for apartments by location and income.
United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
This federal department offers rental help to Michigan residents looking for affordable apartments. Links from their website can put residents in touch with Public Housing Agencies in Michigan, or housing counseling agencies.