RAFT/ERMA Application

The state-funded RAFT (Residential Assistance for Families in Transition) and ERMA (Emergency Rental and Mortgage Assistance) programs can provide funds to eligible households or individuals which can be used to help them keep their housing, obtain new housing, or otherwise avoid becoming homeless.

Funds are available for people who live in or are moving to Worcester County. If you reside elsewhere, please visit mahousinghelp.com to find your provider.

For Renters & Homeowners:

If you need help paying your rent or mortgage, complete the online RAFT/ERMA Application found below (choose language):

 

 

The best way to apply is online. However, if you prefer to submit a paper application or need the application in another language, download it below:

English | Spanish | Portuguese | Vietnamese | Russian | Haitian Creole | Chinese | Khmer

Completed paper applications should be emailed to: HCEC@rcapsolutions.org or faxed to: 508-365-6008

For Landlords:

Landlords who own less than 20 units of housing can submit an online application for their tenants who may need to request financial assistance for overdue rent. All adult household members must sign a Tenant Consent Form (located in the application), in order for the landlord to complete this process.

 

 

More Information:

  • Individuals, families with children, couples without children, unaccompanied youth, and households of any size
  • Household must provide documentation/proof that they are currently experiencing a housing crisis
  • Household income must be below 80% of the area median income (AMI)
Program funds can be used for housing-related expenses only. Appropriate uses of funds include, but are not limited to:

  • Rental or mortgage arrearages
  • Security deposits
  • First and last month's rent
For more information, download the flyer below.

English:

RAFT is targeted at households earning up to 50% area median income (AMI) while ERMA focuses on households earning between 50-80% AMI.

For the full comparison, click here.
In Massachusetts, a landlord must send a tenant a Notice to Quit before the landlord can file a summary process (eviction) action. The Notice to Quit is a legal document that formally notifies the tenant that the tenancy will be terminated on a specific date. A Notice to Quit is not an order to leave your apartment on the date of the lease termination.

NOTE: If you receive a Notice to Quit you do not need to immediately leave your unit. You are entitled to a legal proceeding in which you can defend against the eviction. Only a court order can force you to leave your unit.

If you have received a Notice to Quit for nonpayment of rent, do not ignore or discard it. You should immediately contact your landlord to try to work out a payment plan and use the Massachusetts Legal Resource Finder to connect with legal assistance and other resources.

For full instructions on what to do if you receive a Notice to Quit, download the flyer below.







Portuguese | Vietnamese | Russian | Haitian Creole | Chinese | Khmer
The Eviction Diversion Initiative (EDI) includes new programming and resources for tenants and landlords to avoid evictions and maintain household stability throughout the COVID-19 emergency.

For more information, click here or download the flyer below.







Portuguese | Vietnamese | Russian | Haitian Creole | Chinese | Khmer
CDC Eviction Prevention Form (For Tenants): English | Spanish

RAFT Owner Contract: English | Spanish
Housing Consumer Education Center (HCEC): HCEC is the first point of contact for all clients interested in RCAP Solutions housing counseling, programs, and resources.

Senior, Disabled & Family Housing: RCAP Solutions manages over 350 affordable apartments for the elderly, disabled, and families in Athol, Bolton, Groton, Hubbardston, Northbridge, Townsend, Webster, and Worcester.

Senior & Disabled Programs: RCAP Solutions provides a comprehensive array of elder service programs which can assist our aging population and those who are disabled.

Questions? Contact Us:

HCEC@rcapsolutions.org

978-630-6771

Please note, our office is closed to the public at this time and visits are by appointment only or for paperwork drop off.