A critical piece to ending homelessness in Austin and anywhere, is preventing it from ever occurring.
The City of Austin has awarded $1 million in RISE funding (Relief in a State of Emergency) to the Best Single Source Plus (BSS Plus) collaborative. These resources will be used by the collaborative’s 12 partner agencies to provide immediate financial assistance to families directly impacted by COVID-19. RISE funds can be used to cover rental payments and utility bills, as well as case management and behavioral health services.
Who Qualifies for Help?
To qualify for RISE funds through Best Single Source Plus, Austin/Travis County residents must be considered low income (at or below 200% of Federal Poverty Level), have been directly impacted by COVID-19, and be ineligible for unemployment payments or unemployment payments are insufficient. Here are the poverty guideline numbers.
US Poverty Guidelines
Additionally, priority will be given to marginalized populations including the elderly, people of color, those who identify as LGBTQI, and immigrants. If you or someone you know needs assistance, please contact 2-1-1 for more information.
The Best Single Source Plus partner agencies include: AIDS Services of Austin, Any Baby Can, Caritas of Austin (lead and fiscal agent), Catholic Charities Central Texas, Family Eldercare, Foundation for the Homeless, Front Steps, Goodwill Central Texas, Lifeworks, Meals on Wheels Central Texas, SAFE Alliance, and The Salvation Army.