COVID Programs & Services
The pandemic made clear what we have been saying for years: home is more than four walls and a roof. In order for people to maintain safe, stable housing, they need access to jobs, healthcare, nutritious food, and affordable homes. When COVID disrupted life in Vermont, our neighbors needed additional supports, and we were there to answer the call.
Our HomeOwnership Center and Property Management staff cared for those in need through the administration of three new programs that made safe, adequate housing available throughout the pandemic.
VT Emergency Rental Assistance Program (VERAP)
We administered VERAP in Central Vermont to provide relief to landlords on behalf of renters and tenants who were unable to pay their rent due to financial difficulties brought on by COVID-19.
Housing Assistance Program (HAP)
Funded through the American Rescue Plan Act, this program provided one-time assistance payments to home-owners who were behind on their mortgage payments, utility bills, and property taxes.
Vermont State Rental Rehab Program
The Rental Rehab Program helped landlords access funding to perform repairs that would bring offline rental units up to code in order to make additional rentals availble to those experiencing homelessness.
JOY
"I’m very grateful to the program and especially to Downstreet.
VERAP’s rental assistance helped me tremendously – physically, emotionally, psychologically. Shanda in the HomeOwernship Center was so kind, caring and patient while helping me through the application process when I was ready to give up. She is an angel in my book, and I will never forget her.”
Steven
"I'm not sure what I would have done without Downstreet.
Cheryl in the HomeOwnership Center helped me with all my delinquent bills and taxes. I couldn’t have done it without her – she’s very helpful and kind.”
Trym
"As a contractor, every day I see the need for more housing, at all price levels.
The Rental Rehab program helped make it financially possible for me to renovate three apartments that each needed $75,000 – $100,000 worth of improvements. Pattie in the HomeOwnership Center was a great resource – I called her often and she was always responsive.”