County Executive Adam Bello Announces Launch Of Eviction Diversion Resource Center At Hall Of Justice

September 30th, 2024

First of its kind in a state court outside of the New York City area

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Monroe County Executive Adam Bello today joined Seventh Judicial District Administrative Judge Bill Taylor and Seventh Judicial District Supervising Judge for City Courts Melissa Barrett to announce the launch of the Eviction Diversion Resource Center (EDRC) at the Rochester Hall of Justice in connection to Rochester Housing Court. This innovative initiative will provide residents facing evictions with direct access to essential financial assistance programs and resources every Monday and Friday.

Located on the Mezzanine Floor of the Hall of Justice, the Eviction Diversion Resource Center serves as a support hub, where Monroe County Department of Human Services (DHS) staff will be available to assist tenants with rental assistance applications and eligibility screenings for SNAP, childcare support and other benefits. This is the first center of its kind in a New York State courthouse outside of the New York City area.

"The nationwide affordable housing crisis has led to an uptick in eviction cases across our community. As more eviction cases are entering the court systems, it is clear that underlying issues like food insecurity, transportation and affordable childcare can make it harder for families to afford rent. The Eviction Diversion Resource Center addresses this issue by connecting tenants directly with the supports and services they need," said County Executive Bello. "Thanks to our DHS Commissioner Thalia Wright and Judges Barrett and Taylor for their partnership and commitment to supporting Monroe County Families and helping them maintain stability."

"The Eviction Diversion Resource Center represents a holistic approach to tenancy preservation when possible and aligns with the Seventh Judicial District's commitment to access to justice for all," said Seventh Judicial District Supervising Judge Melissa Barrett.

"The Court is proud to collaborate with Monroe County to make sure resources are available to our citizens while they are appearing in the Hall of Justice. I remain grateful for the leadership of County Executive Bello, Commissioner Wright and Judge Barrett in making the Eviction Diversion Resource Center a reality," said Seventh Judicial District Administrative Judge Bill Taylor.

In addition to DHS support, the Center will also provide access to on-site paralegals through civil legal service providers, who will work directly with tenants and landlords to mediate disputes and facilitate eligibility processes.

"The Eviction Diversion Resource Center will meet the needs of our residents where they are, literally," said the Commissioner of the Department of Human Services Thalia Wright. "People who arrive at the Justice Center facing eviction will be able to apply for services that may help them remain in their home - all before leaving the Courthouse. Our dedicated Monroe County Department of Human Services staff will be available to help tenants with rental assistance applications and eligibility screenings for SNAP, childcare support, and other essential benefits."

Tenants appearing at the Hall of Justice are encouraged to bring the following items to the Eviction Diversion Resource Center to expedite the application process:

• Identification

• Verification of household composition

• All household income - including gross wages and other unearned income such as child support, SSI, SSDI or other income

• Landlord Statement or up to date ledger showing rent owed by month/year

The Eviction Diversion Resource Center is open on Monday and Fridays from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

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