Does anyone know where I can get help with my rent (either from anywhere or in Tucson, AZ?)?

Question

I am disabled and only receive SSDI. I usually have just barely enough to live month to month but had an unexpected expense this month, thus not leaving me money for the rent due on 8/1/08. And on top of that if I don't have the $899.00 by 8/3/08, the landlord will add an extra $50?

Does anyone know any 'National organizations' that may be able to help, any Groups or any local places for Tucson, AZ? (The only places i found in Tucson would only 'maybe' help me, after the late fee, after they take me to court and I loose and owe even more, including court and atty costs, which doesn't make any sense to me)

Answer 1

I'm not familiar with AZ but perhaps some information I can provide will be helpful. This is for the long term fix. In CA and in OR there are what are called Low Housing Properties, subsidized by "HUD" which is Housing and Urban Development. Call information in your area to get your local HUD office and contact them. Ask them for a listing of low income housing in your area. Then you need to take some time and go around and fill out some applications. They usually have a 1 to 2 year waiting list, but at least you get on the list. What happens with this is that rent is determined on your income. Example: Say you make $800.00 Your rent may end up being $500.00 at the low income housing, but the government will pay something like $380.00 a month to the landlord and you only pay $120.00. It is worth the wait. Now for the immediate situation; While on the phone with your local HUD office or local Housing Authority office, ask them if they also know of a charity or sorts that helps people in your situation. Sometimes there are places that will help you, but it usually only a one time thing for the one months rent. Also try calling your local red cross and talking to them. You also might want to thing about relocating to either a cheaper city or a state with cheaper rents. Good luck and hope this helps.