During these challenging times when many people have been negatively impacted financially by the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of Goleta is partnering with the County of Santa Barbara to dedicate its annual HOME Investment Partnerships Program funds to provide rental assistance for Goleta residents.

The City receives funding each year from the federal government to support housing programs and typically the money is pooled with other cities and the County of Santa Barbara to support larger regional projects. This year, City staff requested the funds be used to support residents through an emergency rental assistance program due to the dire need for many in our community during this time.

While the funds are very limited, the City appreciates the County’s support in matching Goleta’s annual HOME allocation, doubling the pot of rental assistance funds to more than $150,000.

The HOME rental assistance program is now open and accepting applications. To qualify, you must live within Goleta city limits; have had your income reduced directly due to the impacts of COVID-19; currently be renting your primary residence; have an income at or below 60% of the area median income ($71,400 for a family of four). Funds will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis for those who qualify. For more information, and to answer a brief list of pre-screening questions to see if you qualify, please contact Dominique Samario at 805-690-5126 or dsamario@cityofgoleta.org.