Salt Lake City introduces new renter resource center, relocation assistance

Oct. 30, 2024

Salt Lake City and the Community Development Corporation of Utah (CDCU) have launched two new programs to provide critical support for renters: the Tenant Resource Center and the Relocation Assistance Fund for Tenants (RAFT). The announcement comes as the City marks the first anniversary of adopting Thriving in Place, a strategy and action plan designed to address and prevent displacement.

The Tenant Resource Center, staffed by CDCU navigators, is a one-stop hub offering personalized assistance to Salt Lake City renters. Navigators connect renters to various services, including eviction assistance, affordable housing resources, and support with basic needs like food and childcare. The Center prioritizes low-income households but is open to all Salt Lake City renters seeking support.

"Every Salt Laker deserves access to stable, affordable housing," said Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall. "Through our new Tenant Resource Center and RAFT program, we're building a stronger foundation of support for our residents, offering vital resources to renters, and working to ensure Salt Lake City remains a welcoming and inclusive place to call home."

In addition to the Tenant Resource Center, the RAFT program will offer financial aid to renters displaced due to new development projects. Eligible renters can receive funds to help cover expenses such as deposits, first and last months' rent, and application fees, making relocation less financially disruptive.

"As Salt Lake City continues to grow, it's essential we respond to critical housing needs in our community," said Salt Lake City Council Chair Victoria Petro. "With most residents renting, nearly half spending more than they should on housing costs, and 30% at risk of displacement, resources like the Tenant Resource Center provide renters with centralized, accessible support. This is an important step in our ongoing commitment to making Salt Lake City affordable and welcoming for all."

Renters earning 80% or less of the area median income are eligible for RAFT if they experience displacement due to building demolition, substantial renovations, conversion of rental units to another use, or the removal of rent or income restrictions.

The City has allocated $92,000 for the Tenant Resource Center pilot program and $180,000 for the RAFT program. Renters can access navigators and learn more about these resources by visiting www.slc.gov/renters.

"As an organization dedicated to helping Utahns on their path to housing stability and financial security, CDCU is grateful to Mayor Mendendhall and all who worked on the Thriving in Place plan for their vision to bring these valuable resources to tenants in Salt Lake City," said Todd Reeder, CDC Utah Chief Executive Officer. "CDCU Community Navigators are standing by to listen to your needs and help you remain stable in your current home, find new housing, and connect you with other housing-related community resources."

The two new programs are part of Salt Lake City's broader Thriving in Place plan, adopted a year ago. The plan was directly informed by the experiences and feedback of residents most impacted by displacement and aims to create a more secure housing future for all.

In the past year, the City has launched a Consumer Protection Complaint Portal, made building accessory dwelling units easier and less expensive, adopted the Affordable Housing Incentives and Community Benefit Policy ordinances, and begun work on turning underutilized City property into housing.