Financial Assistance

Difficulties paying?  Let’s explore options for Financial Assistance


We know that life can take unexpected turns, and our goal is to offer support—not judgment—when financial hardship arises and you’re unable to pay rent. Common situations we’ve seen include:

  • Job loss, layoff, or reduced hours
  • Medical emergencies or unplanned health expenses
  • Family emergencies or caretaking responsibilities
  • Car breakdowns or essential repairs
  • Delays in receiving financial aid, paychecks, or unemployment benefits
  • Transitioning between contracts, gigs, or freelance work


If any of this sounds familiar, you're not alone—and we’re here to help. Here’s how to get started:


Step 1: Explore local and national financial resources

Many government and nonprofit programs offer assistance for rent, food, utilities, and more. These include:

  • Emergency Rental Assistance Programs (ERAP)
  • Local housing or tenant advocacy groups
  • Churches and community organizations offering hardship grants
  • City/county social services departments
  • Unemployment offices or job placement services
  • Mutual aid networks or GoFundMe-style support


Action:  Review the provided list of resources and reach out to as many as you can. Ask what they require—some may need proof of income, a lease, or a hardship letter. Apply even if you’re unsure—better to get in line early than wait until things are urgent.


Step 2: Ask about short-term work through our network

We periodically offer paid opportunities within our team or through our partners. These may include:

  • Cleaning and organizing shared spaces
  • Basic house maintenance or yard work
  • Assistance with move-ins/move-outs
  • Light painting or room setup
  • Community event support or admin work


If you're interested in earning extra income and helping support the community, let us know and we’ll see what’s available.


Step 3: Stay in touch with us about your job/income search

We’re not here to micromanage—but we do want to partner with you. Providing weekly updates helps us better advocate for you when needed. Updates can include:

  • Companies you’ve applied to (name, position, application date)
  • Recruiters or headhunters you’re working with
  • Interviews you’ve scheduled or completed
  • Any barriers you're facing (e.g., lack of transportation, need for certifications)

We’re happy to write recommendation letters, confirm your good standing as a tenant, or even make connections within our network to help you move forward.


Step 4: Let us know your rent situation early

If you know you can’t make a full rent payment this month, reach out before rent is due. Being proactive builds trust and allows us to create a plan that works for both sides. We ask:

  • Make a partial payment if you can—it shows good faith.
  • Share a realistic timeline of when and how you expect to pay.
  • Let us know if you’re waiting on assistance so we can factor that in.

We’re here to collaborate—not penalize—so long as there’s communication and shared commitment.


Do you have any sources of income?

Uber, side hustle, Uber/Lyft, delivery, part time job, savings, pension, alimony, etc. Overturn every stone at your disposal to make ends meet. 


Have you worked with local non-profits on rent assistance?

Charlotte has two main places that help people meet short term financial gaps by paying part or all your rent. Contact below for more details. 

Charlotte Area Fund
901 N. Tryon Street
Charlotte, North Carolina 28202
Dial the center at 704-890-2204
One of the primary non-profits for Mecklenburg County. Numerous financial assistances are available, including for rent, security deposits, or utility costs.

Mecklenburg Crisis Assistance Ministry
Location - 500 Spratt Street
Charlotte, NC 28206
Phone: 704-890-2204
Provide assistance in emergency rent help. 

Have you filed for unemployment with city?
If you were laid-off, fired, furloughed or the like, we recommend filing with the city to see if you are eligible for unemployment benefits. 
https://des.nc.gov

Do you need food assistance?
If so, we recommend reaching out to the local food bank for assistance.
Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina
500 Spratt St B, Charlotte, NC 28206
704-890-2204
www.secondharvestmetrolina.org

Have you tried being a remote call center rep? 
We have several tenants who have a home office already that can be turned into a virtual call center rep station. Check out https://join.liveops.com/careers/

Have you looked at virtual job postings in Charlotte? 
Indeed has a good list. If the link doesn’t work, on top in the “Where” section, insert the word “Remote”.

Need other tips for remote work searching?
Check out the Careers Blog.

Indeed also has a guide on how to get a job fast. 
Check it out!​

 

Nationwide

  • Earnin App for help with immediate payments
  • Wonolo for help finding hourly work

 

 

Once you have exhausted the resources of this list, contact our offices at info@communityroomrental.com for next steps in rent relief. 



Final Note:
Financial hardship is tough, but you don’t have to face it alone. Let’s work together to keep your housing stable and help you through this period with dignity and support.