The Homeless Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program (HPRP) has helped individuals and families make it through some of the toughest economic times Ventura County has ever seen.

From HPRP’s launch in November 2009 through December 2011, a total of 1,711 people in 627 households received HPRP funds and services.  The program provided a total of $1,089,493 in assistance to Ventura County residents, with the average household receiving just under $1,700.  By the end of December 2011, the Human Services Agency distributed all HPRP funds designated for eviction prevention to needy clients, and nearly all HPRP funds designated for rapid re-housing.

In late February 2012, the Ventura County Board of Supervisors, acknowledging the end of federal ARRA funding for HPRP, approved the use of $750,000 to continue assisting needy residents through a new rental assistance program similar to HPRP.

Below are just a few examples of County residents who have benefited from HPRP; names and details have been changed to ensure confidentiality.

James and Maria, a couple with two young children, fell behind on their rent when their landlord claimed that their money order for the rent had never arrived.  HPRP eviction prevention funds helped James, a veteran who served several years overseas and now works full-time, and Maria, who recently secured employment, avoid eviction.

Bonnie, a single mother with a toddler, works full-time to support her son but lives paycheck to paycheck.  When her employer closed for two weeks during the holidays leaving Bonnie without a paycheck, Bonnie fell behind on her rent.  With a little help from HPRP, Bonnie avoided eviction and is now current with her rent.

Paul had never applied for government assistance, but when he found himself facing eviction following a recent lay-off from work and the death of his wife, he sought help through HPRP.  Initially, Paul discovered that he was not eligible for HPRP due to his relatively high monthly rent.  However, Paul worked with an HPRP social worker to develop a plan for securing a lower-cost rental.  Paul’s property manager allowed him to move to a smaller unit within the same apartment complex, and accepted HPRP funds to bring Paul’s rent current.  Now, Paul is able to focus on his job search – and go through the grieving process – with the stability and security that a home offers.