HARTFORD, Conn. (WTIC Radio)—A new state program is now available for eligible Connecticut households to get rental and utility payment assistance, Governor Ned Lamont announced Monday.
UniteCT is a $235 million program funded with part of the state's share of the December federal stimulus package, according to state officials.
Qualified households may get up to $11,500 in assistance, including up to $10,000 in rental assistance and up to $1,500 in electric utility payments, officials said.
State Housing Commissioner Seila Mosquera-Bruno said those that are eligible include those who have qualified for unemployment or have experienced a reduction in household income, those who have experienced financial hardships due to the COVID-19 pandemic and those who demonstrate a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability.
The program will support households up to 80% of the HUD area median income, she said.
"The goal of UniteCT," Mosquera-Bruno said, "is to help stabilize Connecticut's rental housing market."
The Lamont administration is also allocating $4 million in state funding to help support undocumented renters.
The Connecticut Institute for Refugees & Immigrants (CIRI) will continue to serve undocumented residents, state officials said in a statement, since many of them are anxious about interacting with the government directly.
UniteCT will help families get back on their feet without worrying about their housing situation, Governor Ned Lamont said.
Tenants and landlords can apply through the program's website or get additional information through its call center at 844-864-8328.
