Housing Assistance

The federal government offers a variety of housing assistance programs to help low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities secure safe and affordable housing. These programs range from rental subsidies and public housing to grants for developing affordable homes. Exploring these options can help you find the support you need to maintain stable housing. For details on how to navigate these resources, see How to Get Government Housing Assistance.

Rental Assistance Programs

Key rental assistance includes the Housing Choice Voucher program (Section 8), which enables eligible renters to live in privately owned homes with rent partly covered by the government. Project-based rental assistance attaches subsidies to specific housing developments, while the Emergency Rental Assistance program provides funds to help renters avoid eviction. These programs collectively support millions of households nationwide.

Affordable Housing Development and Public Housing

Federal initiatives like the HOME Investment Partnerships Program and Community Development Block Grants fund the construction and preservation of affordable housing. The National Housing Trust Fund targets housing for the lowest-income families. Additionally, public housing managed by local authorities offers income-based rent options for nearly a million households, providing another pathway to affordable living.

Utility and Energy Assistance

Housing assistance also includes help with utility and energy costs. Programs such as LIHEAP and LIHWAP assist low-income households in managing heating, cooling, and water bills. For more information on these critical resources, visit Understanding Utility Assistance: LIHEAP, LIHWAP, and Water Bill Resources and Understanding LIHEAP: Your Guide to Home Energy Assistance.