The State of California Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP)
In March of 2021, the CA COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Program began to accept applications for rent and utility support from tenants and landlords hit hardest by the pandemic. Dedicated to alleviating financial hardships and preventing homelessness among Californians, TDA leveraged our project management experience to aid the State in creating a tailored, efficient program for both urban and rural communities.
September 7, 2023
Case Study
Challenge
The State of California faced a monumental challenge: rapidly establishing a program that would operate with both integrity and efficiency, spanning the diverse landscapes of urban and rural areas. Within this context, low-income communities face significant obstacles in accessing relief programs. These include issues such as limited internet access, complex application procedures, a lack of non-English language support, and difficulties attending in-person appointments. California, from the outset, understood the necessity of a well-coordinated response, ultimately creating what would become the largest program in its history.
Solution
TDA initiated a boots-on-the-ground strategy, activating local organizations to help individuals access the relief program successfully. Empowered by the State, TDA established a Local Partner Network (LPN) consisting of 176 local, regional, and statewide organizations. The LPNs were chosen for their cultural competence and ability to reach vulnerable populations in multiple languages and geographies. The program's success hinged on its human-centered design, tailored to individual needs. Whether through doorstep appointments, over the phone, or via text, the program eliminated barriers faced by residents.
Results
Thanks to TDA's coordination of the Local Partner Network and the dedication of our local partners, hundreds of thousands of vulnerable Californians remained housed during an unprecedented public health and economic crisis. From the program’s launch on March 15, 2021, through September 30, 2022, over $4.3 Billion in direct financial assistance was delivered. Today, TDA continues to collaborate with over 40 partners as we conclude the program, consistently offering feedback and suggestions to the State. This ongoing feedback loop ensures real-time enhancements to the program, making it more effective in reaching those who need it most.