Mayor introduces new programs to help Salt Lake City renters

SALT LAKE CITY — The Community Development Corporation of Utah, in conjunction with Salt Lake City government, has launched two programs to provide support for renters. 

The Tenant Resource Center and the Relocation Assistance Fund for Tenants comes a year after Salt Lake City adopted the “Thriving in Place” strategy. The goal is to create long-term solutions that help residents stay in housing. 

Tenant Resource Center

According to a press release from Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall’s Office, the Tenant Resource Center will be a “one-stop hub.” It will offer personalized help to those renting in Salt Lake City.

Community Development Corporation of Utah navigators will help connect renters with different services. Those include eviction assistance, affordable housing resources, and basic food and childcare support. 

The Center prioritizes low-income households but is open to all renters. 

Salt Lake City has allocated $92,000 for this program.

Relocation Assistance Fund for Tenants

The Relocation Assistance Fund for Tenants (RAFT) will offer financial aid to renters who have been displaced because of new development projects. 

Eligible renters will receive money to help cover expenses like deposits, first and last months’ rent and application fees. To be eligible, one needs to earn 80% or less of an area’s median income, 

Salt Lake City has allocated $180,000 for the RAFT program.

“Every Salt Laker deserves access to stable, affordable housing,” Mayor Mendenhall said in the press release. “Through our new Tenant Resource Center and RAFT program, we’re building a stronger foundation of support for our residents, offering vital resources to renters, and working to ensure Salt Lake City remains a welcoming and inclusive place to call home.”

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