Our heartfelt thanks to Princeton University for its generous support of our Eviction Prevention program.
Click to apply for help with general rental or security deposit assistance:
Haga clic aquí para solicitar ayuda con el alquiler general o asistencia con el depósito de seguridad:
Princeton University Contributes $300,000 Over Three Years to HIP’s Eviction Prevention Program
Photo by Denise Applewhite, Office of Communications
As part of a more than $50 million voluntary contribution package to Princeton municipality, local programs, and residents, Princeton University awards $300,000 over three years to Housing Initiatives of Princeton, in support of HIP’s Eviction Prevention Program, which helps low-income Princeton residents and families with emergency rental assistance.
Sometimes a Little Help Goes a Long Way
Princeton Perspectives highlights HIP in their “Fresh Starts” Issue.
For most of us, turning the page on a new year brings a sense of renewal and possibility. But cracking open that new journal to write one’s goals and resolutions can be easy when it’s done in a safe, warm home with two cars in the driveway. For those living in a condemned building, couch surfing in overcrowded apartments, or staying in a noisy and unsafe motel, the notion of a fresh start can be much more elusive.
Our Services
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HIP provides transitional housing to low-income working families and individuals facing homelessness, typically for 12 to 24 months. We provide clients with a safe home in one of seven apartments in the Princeton area along with support services. These supports include a case manager with MSW, LCSW credentials who works closely with the families throughout their time in HIP housing as they identify and achieve goals related to employment, money management, education and job training, parenting and child development.
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HIP provides family-focused wraparound services designed to support clients in our transitional housing program and prepare them for success after they transition out of HIP housing. These supports include:
Working with a case manager
Career counseling to help seek, secure and advance in a family-supporting career
One-on-one money management and credit improvement assistance, including credit analysis and an action plan, budget counseling, automated bill payment set-up and monitoring, financial education, and tax preparation assistance
Financial assistance in accessing post-secondary degrees and certifications
Family-focused services to ensure the children living in HIP housing are thriving, including guidance to parents in advocating for their children in their schools, tutoring and mentoring, summer camps, theatre tickets, sports and other extracurricular activities
Guidance in identifying and applying for the full range of area affordable housing options
Connections to area food pantries at partner organizations to ensure that they have access to nutritional food
Moving Assistance: HIP families transitioning to permanent housing may incur expenses in order to move into their new residence. Moving costs can hinder a family from exiting the HIP unit on schedule and getting settled in their new home. HIP will consider paying moving costs on a case-by-case basis for moving within the geographical radius that HIP serves. Eligible costs may include Truck rental, Hired labor, Utility turn-on fees, Storage for 30 days, Packing boxes or bins (if donation or in-kind is not available)
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Most landlords require an extra month’s rent to be paid upfront as a security deposit. The funds required can derail a family’s efforts, even if they can afford to pay the regular monthly rent.
HIP will consider paying the security deposit for families who reside in the Princeton area. In order to qualify for assistance, applicants must be pre-screened by landlord. Applicants must also have demonstrated ability to make ongoing rent payments (those who do not have adequate income, and/or would need on-going assistance would not be eligible)
The security deposit is paid directly to the landlord. Clients are eligible for this service once every two years.
Security deposit assistance may be available for families in the Princeton area. Must provide: documentation of income and current expenses; and documentation of approval from potential landlord.
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We have limited general Rental Assistance funds currently available for residents of Mercer County, New Jersey. Please call 609-921-2328 for assistance.
Si usted tiene preguntas acerca de la asistencia para el pago de la renta, por favor llame al número 609-921- 2328.
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HIP joined forces with the other Housing Assistance Programs in the Princeton area that assist families in need of housing, at-risk of eviction or who are homeless with housing stability supports in order better coordinate our efforts. Together we formed the Housing Stability Coalition.
Goals:
To address homelessness in our communities beyond “homelessness” as defined by our county/state government agencies, funders, etc.
To be informed and effective advocates when addressing the realities and challenges of housing stability and access to affordable housing
To streamline a process for intake and information sharing so organizations can focus on core tasks such as case management, housing location, and landlord negotiation, and so families can more easily access assistance
To explore models and best practices to engage clients in job and financial literacy and coaching