Homeless Prevention Program
Important Updates
Please note that our process has changed due to updates in our priority tool. Funding is limited, and unfortunately, we cannot assist every household. We are now able to provide help for up to two months of back rent, and funds must be used to address housing crises.
Back Rent Assistance: What You Need to Provide
To apply for back rent assistance, we need to confirm your eligibility. Please submit the following to Hp@mnvac.org
- Notice to Vacate or Court Eviction and rent ledger– showing your current balance, late fees, or other charges.
- Proof of Income – all household income (age 18+) and benefit sources for the past 30 days (examples: MFIP, Social Security/SSDI, Child Support, Wages, Unemployment, etc.).
- Property Manager Contact Information – name, phone number, and/or email address.
- Written Statement – explaining why you fell behind on rent.
- Your contact information so we can schedule a screening-name, phone number, and/or email address
- Please note: Turning in paperwork does not guarantee approval of funds.
Once all required documents are received, we will review your eligibility and contact you by phone/email to schedule a screening.
At MVAC, we are committed to ensuring housing assistance reaches those who need it most, when they need it.
We use a Prevention Prioritization Tool to guide decisions fairly and consistently, as required by grant funding. This tool was developed with input from a regional advisory committee and individuals with lived experience, ensuring it reflects real-life challenges.
The tool asks questions about your current situation and housing barriers. While it cannot predict the future, it is based on research identifying factors linked to homelessness risk. You only need to share what you’re comfortable with—your answers help us allocate resources fairly. MVAC serves 9 counties and the pool of eligibility will remain open for one month. This allow us to review and prioritize all active households for that time period. This is not an emergency funding and it is a process that takes time. If you need emergency funding please reach out to your county office.
Assistance depends on funding, staff capacity, and location. Even if funds aren’t immediately available, your assessment keeps you connected for future support. If you don’t qualify for financial help, we’ll link you to other resources.
We believe you are the expert in your own life. Our role is to support you in finding the best path forward. If you have questions, please reach out, we aim to keep this process transparent, respectful, and collaborative. Our Housing tab also includes Housing Crisis Suggestions, Affordable Housing Resources, and information on Homeless Youth and Education.