New research from Harvard University’s Joint Center for Housing Studies (JCHS) finds that emergency rental assistance (ERA) provides short-term benefits beyond housing stability for recipients, including improved financial well-being and better mental health. Using data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey, the JCHS study compares renter households who received ERA (recipients) with those who applied but had not yet received assistance (applicants). The report finds that ERA recipients are less likely to self-report current rental arrears, borrowing from friends or family to meet household expenses, food insecurity, or poor mental health.
Emergency Rental Assistance Supports the Mental Health and Financial Well-Being of Households
Oklahoma Coalition for Affordable Housing 