Metro Housing’s primary resource that is free and open to the public—the Housing Consumer Education Center (HCEC) — is a clearinghouse for households along the housing continuum: homelessness prevention, housing stability, and economic security. HCEC staff help families address crises, educate and assist tenants and property owners, and respond to constituent issues reported by elected officials.

Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT)

The state-funded RAFT program is a tool used by the Housing Hub team to provide up to $7,000 per 12-month period to help people with low incomes stay housed or move into their next home during periods of housing instability and crisis. Time frame restrictions and total funding options vary. To determine eligibility for RAFT, go to the online application at bit.ly/Rentrelief

Housing Search

HCEC staff helps people navigate the housing system by assisting in obtaining the forms and documents that tenants need to apply for housing and making sure people understand their housing options moving forward.

Information, Referral, and Case Management

Using our extended network of service providers, HCEC connects people with resources for:
• Financial assistance • Legal aid • Housing search • Move-in/transition support • Furniture and furnishings assistance • Budget support • Utilities • Arrearage assistance

Colocations

Metro Housing partners with local organizations and uses their expertise to supply vital housing support services to residents who have low and moderate incomes. Through these collaborations with community organizations, residents access multiple services convenient to where they live, in familiar locations that are physically and culturally accessible. The colocation sites are possible in part through the generous support of Bank of America.

Workshops

Upcoming workshops may include: • Introduction To Eviction Process & Prevention • Housing Search Strategies • Introduction To Affordable Housing and the EA Shelter System • Fair Housing and Civil Rights Workshop

Other Resources Available Through HCEC

HCEC offers free workshops, resources and intervention services to help you with your housing questions and concerns. You may also access fact sheets, newsletters, reference books, and service directories. We also provide free access to telephones and the internet.