Dallas, TX
Dallas pilot program helps those facing eviction with $250 for rent
DALLAS – A pilot program helps susceptible residents within the metropolis of Dallas keep away from eviction.
It is funded by the United Manner of Metropolitan Dallas with assist from neighborhood companions.
The most recent knowledge reveals hire costs in Dallas County have gone up by some 17% this previous yr. It may be lots for the common resident to soak up.
However for essentially the most susceptible residents, it could imply going through attainable eviction. The brand new pilot program is aimed toward conserving these residents proper the place they’re.
Via video testimonials, Dallas residents who have been picked to a part of an eviction prevention pilot program spearheaded by the United Manner shared how the $250 they obtain monthly has helped them and their households keep put.
The private tales have been shared with town of Dallas Workforce, Schooling and Fairness Committee at a gathering Monday.
“There aren’t any metropolis funds which are straight concerned within the programing of the mannequin going to be introduced right this moment,” stated Dallas Asst. Metropolis Supervisor Liz Cedillo-Pereira.
The pilot program was launched within the fall of final yr and targets communities with excessive charges of eviction filings and colleges with pupil mobility.
The five hundred recipients every make a mean revenue of $14,000 per yr. The extra money equals to a 23% improve of their yearly revenue.
“Nearly all of individuals put their cash in the direction of payments and primary wants,” stated Ivanna Neri with UpTogether.
Whereas the objective is to maintain susceptible residents from going through eviction, the money they obtain yearly from this system can be utilized on any family want.
“Generally, it’s nearly getting the automotive fastened, about getting the uniform,” stated Dena Jackon with the Texas Lady’s Basis.
Some committee members expressed their issues with the way in which the funding is handed out.
“What are we doing with the mother and father to assist them transfer to that subsequent stage,” requested Dallas Metropolis Councilwoman Paula Blackmon.
“So there isn’t any required participation from the households with any coaching or something like that, however we do provide case administration,” stated Ashley Brundage with United Manner.
For now, the three-year pilot program is being funded via philanthropic means.
However the nonprofits are hoping to companion with town of Dallas to undertake a long-term plan to make extra investments in several communities rotating residents each three years
The pilot program is wrapping up first yr in January, so the United Manner ought to have knowledge throughout the subsequent month or so concerning long-term outcomes.
The assistant metropolis supervisor stated the workers is just not at some extent the place they will make a suggestion to the committee about attainable subsequent steps.