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City of Ventura Emergency Rental Assistance Program (spring 2026)

The City of Ventura is currently offering rental assistance to tenants living within the City of Ventura city limits and are struggling with rent or utility costs. Applications for rental and utility assistance are now open. The deadline to submit an application is June 30, 2026, or when funds have been exhausted. The program is first-come, first serve and funding is limited.

Program Overview

The City of Ventura has launched its Emergency Rental Assistance program to provide rental and utility assistance for those who are behind in their rent or utilities. The program is to assist City of Ventura residents enduring financial hardship while also reducing the number of tenants being evicted throughout the city.

Grant Awards

Up to three (3) months of rent and/or utility debt may be covered.

Maximum award of $4,000 per household. Exceptions for more assistance are on a case-by-case basis. Rental and utility deposits may also be provided for those moving into new units. Funds may also be available for those who are facing imminent eviction and need rental and utility assistance to move into a new unit. In order to be eligible, tenants must exhibit the ability to pay rent after the assistance has been provided.

Eligibility Requirements

Must reside within the City of Ventura city limits
Meet the Section 8 household income requirements
Have valid identification
Have a valid lease agreement
Both the tenant and property manager/owner must agree to the terms of the program
Funds may also be available for those who are facing imminent eviction and need rental and utility assistance to move into a new unit. In order to be eligible, tenants must exhibit the ability to pay rent after the assistance has been provided.

Eligibility Requirements

Agenda March 4, 2025

3:15pm via Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81514995979

I. Welcome and Introductions (Judy Alexandre)

II. Approval of or changes to the minutes of 2/4/26 (Judy Alexandre)

III. Approval of or changes to the agenda of 3/4/26 (Judy Alexandre)

IV. Updates from City of Ventura: grants, housing, advocacy needs, actions taken (Maruja Clensay or Andrea Palmer)

V. Updates from the COC: grants, Point In Time count, others (Jenn Harkey)

VI. Final approval of tenant protections (Maruja or Kristian Nunez)

VII. Council Housing and Homeless Subcommittee (Judy Alexandre, Maruja)

VIII. Strategy Planning for goal implementation (Judy and John Jones)

IX. Report back from Reimagine workshop and showing of brief video (John)

X. Housing updates, bond measure (Karen Flock, Kyler Carlson, other)

XI. Report from agencies….we want and need to hear from you

XII. Motion to adjourn until 4/1/26 at 3:15 via zoom (Judy Alexandre)