Harris County residents facing eviction threats have access to a growing network of local organizations dedicated to offering support and resources.
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The Neighborhood Defender Service of Texas (NDS) is stepping in to provide critical support for low-income residents of Harris County facing eviction. Their community-based, holistic housing defense services are offered free of charge, ensuring vulnerable individuals and families have access to professional legal assistance during difficult times.
If you or someone you know is at risk of eviction, NDS is ready to help. They can be reached at 713-208-5577 for more information or to apply for assistance.
To qualify for legal services under the NDS Eviction Defense Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a resident of Harris County, Texas
- Have a total household income at or below 200% of the current Federal Poverty Guideline
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Lone Star Legal Aid is a crucial resource for individuals and families facing the threat of eviction. By providing free legal assistance, LSLA empowers tenants to understand their rights and navigate the legal processes that may determine their housing future.
If you’ve been told to leave your home, LSLA offers resources to guide you through every step of the eviction process. Tenants can apply for free legal help and access tools designed to help resolve legal issues independently.
Tenants in any of the 72 Texas counties and 4 Arkansas counties LSLA serves can apply for free legal assistance. The website also includes self-help tools that allow users to create legal documents and explore steps to address their legal challenges.
LSLA provides specific resources for Harris County tenants, including information on eviction dockets at Justice of the Peace courts and details about LSLA services at covered courts.
The Houston Apartment Association is working closely with landlords and tenants to address concerns and prevent unnecessary evictions. HAA aims to reduce housing instability while supporting both parties involved.
In response to the housing crisis, billions of dollars have been invested in rental assistance programs nationwide. These programs are designed to help renters and property owners manage financial difficulties caused by the pandemic and other challenges.
However, many programs have limited funds or may require additional applications for renewed funding.
Here are key programs available to Harris County and surrounding areas:
- Harris County TERAP: This program offers rental assistance for apartment owners and residents in Harris County but outside the city limits of Houston, Baytown, or Pasadena. Apply at: Harris County Rental Assistance
- City of Houston Rental Assistance: Additional funding is available for renters within the city limits of Houston and Harris County. Apply at: Houston-Harris Help
- Fort Bend Rental Assistance: A newly launched program for residents of Fort Bend County. Apply at: Fort Bend Rental Assistance FAQs: Fort Bend FAQ
- Northwest Assistance Ministries (NAM): Offers rent and mortgage assistance, with payments made directly to landlords or tenants based on the funding source. Apply at: NAM Basic Needs