Two years after launching one of its most popular programs that has helped more than 1,800 families secure a stable place to live, the City of Tampa is excited to announce its Rental and Move-in Assistance Program (RMAP) will once again be accepting applications beginning Thursday, August 8, 2024.
Due to the significant rent increases the Tampa housing market has been experiencing over the past few years, the program, which began in 2022, assists income-qualifying working residents attain housing stability by helping to cover costs, such as security deposits, first and last month’s rent, and monthly rental assistance for up to one year. Since its conception, the program has assisted more than 1,800 households and awarded more than $9.5 million in rental assistance, with the average award being $4,800.
In some cases, before the resident applies for RMAP, recipients were either homeless or at risk of homelessness and have learned of the program through the City’s Homeless Outreach Team. Before the program was closed in April to process the high volume of applications, RMAP Phase V (beginning in February 2024 through April 2024) had assisted with providing permanent, stable housing to 51 homeless, 35 disabled, 29 senior citizens and 211 families with minor children.
“We are proud to say, that after months of being put on pause, we are re-opening this program to provide assistance to more residents facing high rent costs,” said Mayor Jane Castor. “During its most recent phase, since February, RMAP has enabled 118 families avoid eviction and another 285 families remain stably housed.”
The program helps families who earn up to 140% of the Area Median Income (AMI), and you must be a current renter approved for a unit in the City of Tampa. For example, a four-person household making $70,000 would be considered at 50-80% AMI and could qualify for a maximum assistance of $7,500 total, or $625 per month.
Starting Thursday, August 8, twenty-five eligible applications will be accepted every Thursday and Friday until the funding limit is reached. Applications will be posted to tampa.gov/rmap.
Angela:
A life-long caregiver who suddenly found herself diagnosed with Triple-Negative Breast Cancer and homeless, Angela felt that every step she made forward became ten steps backwards. While undergoing twelve cycles of chemotherapy and nine weeks of radiation, she went from working part time to being on disability. She could pay rent, but could not afford the security deposit of 2-3 months rent that landlords required. Upon learning of RMAP and working with the Homeless Outreach Team, she was able to secure housing within a month.
Carlos:
A veteran who faithfully served in the United States military, Carlos struggled with homelessness as he tried to figure out how to build a foundation for his two children. After unsuccessfully trying to find stable housing, he reached out to the City of Tampa and found the RMAP program, which helped him move into a townhouse next to Raymond James Stadium.
William:
A single father who struggled with alcoholism and depression, William was determined to turn his life around for his daughter. While he received treatment, the rehab program was unable to assist him with housing, leaving William and his four-year-old daughter homeless. After he was referred to the City’s Homeless Outreach Program, he was able to receive assistance to move into his first apartment. He now has a place to call home for him and his daughter.