Can't Pay Rent in Pittsburgh — What Are My Options?

Allegheny Link gives referrals only. Call (866) 730-2368. Learn about rental arrears assistance or security deposit help. Or learn about how to find affordable housing, including for seniors. There are also pro-bono lawyers, information on welfare or rent grants and more. The main office is at One Smithfield Street, Human Services Building, Pittsburgh, PA 15222. The money can also help pay mobile home lot rent.

Emergency Shelter Allowance (ESA) from Pennsylvania DHS - Department of Human Services - County Assistance helps anyone at risk of homelessness (eviction, foreclosure, utility disconnections, etc) as well as the currently homeless. Get financial help for rent or housing costs. ESA can also help with locating a place to live, motel or hotel vouchers, grants and other support.

Allegheny Valley Association of Churches (AVAC) can help the homeless members as well as low income members of the Pittsburgh and Allegheny County community and the agency serves as a point of entry for sustainable care. The center at AVAC includes many necessities for struggling families including basic needs such as shelter, toiletries, free food and water. Staff also provide general information and referrals. Dial 724-226-0606 for more help.

CHS - Community Human Services Corporation helps with eviction prevention and rehousing. They may also help homeowners. Whether one time, limited rental or mortgage assistance, or assistance with storage costs or permanent housing placement, help is offered. The office is at 2525 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh Pennsylvania 15222. Dial (412) 246-1601 or 412.246.1600 for information on homeless prevention.

Allegheny County Bureau of Hunger and Housing Services (412-350-4354) runs a homeless assistance program and also provides rental assistance for Allegheny County low income residents.

Pittsburgh Hispanic Development Corporation has information for Spanish speakers. With legal services on addressing housing discrimination from a landlord, or grant money to pay rent in Allegheny County, the non-profit assistance. Call 1-866-730-2368. The Latino Community Center is a similar non-profit and can be reached at (412)-335-7446.

Mckeesport Neighborhood Initiatives helps local families only. Both low and moderate income families (or single parents) can get help from 502 5th Avenue, McKeesport, PA 15132. Locate affordable housing, rent or moving help, lot rent assistance and other emergency financial aid. Call (412) 673-7000.

Allegheny County Bureau of Hunger and Housing Services (phone number (866) 730-2368 or (412) 350-4354) runs a homeless assistance program and also provides rental assistance for Allegheny County low income residents. The location is 1 Smithfield Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222.

If you are on the verge of being evicted and therefore homeless, then the North Hills Community Outreach may be an option for you. The non-profit can provide emergency financial assistance for families or individuals who have received an eviction notice. The goal is to prevent homelessness. Call the Allston Park agency at 412-487-6316.

Allegheny and Pittsburgh Salvation Army is a great resource for information, and also possible limited amounts of financial help to pay for housing. Call them at (412) 207-2127 for emergency renter assistance. There are several other Salvation Army Centers that may offer financial aid for paying utilities, rent and housing costs, such as moving costs.

St. Vincent De Paul Society also partners with local churches and religious organizations. Dial 412-321-1071 to be put into touch with local charities, volunteers, or churches who may be able to provide help for housing needs. There are hardship funds to help pay back rent, utility bills for tenants and/or low income housing. Some local agencies may offer loans for paying rental payments or manage shelters in the region.

ACTION-Housing is a leading non-profit housing agency in Allegheny County. It does not offer monetary rental assistance, however the agency does have a program called Homeless Families Program (412-824-2444).

This helps homeless individuals and families identify what their various options are, including giving information about local shelters. Also, ACTION-Housing’s subsidiary, Supportive Housing Management Services (412-829-3910) manages a number of apartment buildings with subsidized housing units, including at least one property with limited shelter beds. There is even information on how to rent an apartment with past eviction.

Urban League of Pittsburgh administers a number of resources including a rental assistance program. The non-profit provides qualified individuals with security deposits, rent payments, utility and heating bill payments and general housing resources. Call (412) 727-2640, or stop by 332 Fifth Ave Pittsburgh PA 15222.

Allegheny County Housing Authority administers the section 8 housing program for the very low income, seniors, and poor in the region. This is federally funded and the program provides rent subsidies and vouchers for living in private single houses or apartments. The agency also has information on other housing resources. They offer advice, counseling, information on emergency housing, and run the state of Pennsylvania Section 8 housing voucher program for Pittsburgh. Call the center at 412-355-8940.

Union Aid Society provides assistance in the Sewickley and Quaker Valley School District only. They manage affordable apartments for the elderly, offer grants as a form of emergency rental assistance, and provide low income housing solutions. 412-741-9240.

Allegheny Neighborhood Legal Services Association coordinates free legal aid for qualified low income families as well as tenants to help them if they are to be evicted. They can offer help to prevent evictions, resolve landlord disputes, and ensure fair housing laws are followed. Get help in dealing with disputes over rent and landlord mediation too. Call 412-255-6700 or try the Pro Bono Center of the Allegheny County Bar Foundation at 412-402-6677 for referrals.