The 2019 Legislative Session brought Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) historic housing resources across the spectrum, including preventing and ending homelessness. House Bill 2006 allocated $3 million in Rental Market Resources to help homeless and low-income Oregonians navigate the tight rental market and achieve positive housing outcomes. These funds will be available for five purposes:

  1. technology to modernize and streamline the housing search process,
  2. services that support and advance the rights of low-income renters through education and advocacy,
  3. incentives and financial assistance to landlords that rent or lease to low income households,
  4. education to tenants and landlords on their rights and responsibilities and navigation services to assist renters in secure housing through personalized assistance with housing searches and
  5. flexible funding to cover moving costs.

The $3 million Rental Market Resources package will be available through a competitive fund offering, allowing OHCS to prioritize resources to meet pressing needs and best align with Statewide Housing Plan priorities. OHCS is currently developing the Request for Proposals.