United Way Rental Assistance Program Helps Paulding County Households Achieve Housing Stability
The United Way of Paulding County is proud to announce the success of a new Rental Assistance Program made possible through a partnership with the Northwest Ohio Community Action Commission (NOCAC). The program was funded through a $5,000 grant from First Financial Bank, which was matched by the United Way of Paulding County, allowing a total of $10,000 in rental assistance to be provided to local residents in need.
The program was created to help individuals and families facing financial hardship, remain safely housed during challenging times. Through this collaborative effort, a total of eight households in Paulding County received assistance.
Households assisted included:
• Female-led multigenerational household
• Single female household
• Female with one child
• Married couple with two children
• Single female with four children
• Single male household
• Single female household
In addition to helping prevent housing instability, the program also focused on long-term self-sufficiency through financial coaching and supportive services provided by NOCAC.
One participant received assistance toward past due rent and completed two coaching sessions but chose to continue working with her coach beyond the required sessions beginning in February. She is now pursuing her GED through ASPIRE classes while continuing to receive support with interview preparation, study skills, and gaining greater independence.
Another participant received rental assistance and completed two coaching sessions before continuing voluntarily with additional support beginning in March. Coaching focused on resume writing, job searching, career development, and financial literacy. Although she is no longer formally enrolled in the program, the coach continues to stay in contact periodically as she works toward paying down debt and maintaining financial independence.
“Stable housing is critical for the health and wellbeing of families and individuals,” stated Lora Lyons of United Way of Paulding County. “This partnership allowed us to respond directly to local needs and provide meaningful assistance to residents facing difficult circumstances while also helping individuals build long-term stability and independence.”
The United Way of Paulding County extends its sincere appreciation to First Financial Bank for its investment in the community and to NOCAC for helping administer and coordinate the program.
