The Town of Brookhaven Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) is helping residents of households behind on their rent, who have experienced financial hardship due to COVID-19 and are at risk of homelessness or housing instability. ERAP is providing significant economic relief to help qualified low and moderate-income households by providing rental arrears (rent overdue), temporary rental assistance, and utility arrears assistance. Households eligible for rental arrears may also be eligible for help paying utility arrears at the same rental unit.
This program is open only to eligible Town of Brookhaven residents who must meet specific criteria to enroll. If accepted, the assistance can pay up to 12 months of past-due rent and for some households, pay up to 3 months for future rent. The program can also pay for up to 12 months of overdue electric or gas bills. Funding is provided in partnership with the Town of Brookhaven and the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance.
Options ESG Program Coordinator Tara McLaughlin is available to answer any eligibility questions and assist with the application process. Please call (631) 361-9020 ext. 1197 or email tmclaughlin@optionscl.org for further assistance. Tara McLaughlin will also be available at Options Thrift Shop (392 Hawkins Avenue, Lake Ronkonkoma) every Tuesday and Thursday from 10 AM – 2 PM to answer questions about the Town of Brookhaven Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP). Availability is by appointment only and is subject to change, so please call before arriving.
If you are outside of the Town of Brookhaven and are looking for similar assistance, the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance may be able to help. Visit their website at www.otda.ny.gov/ERAP or call 844-NY1RENT (844-691-7368) to learn more.