Rental assistance

• Michigan COVID Emergency Rental Assistance (CERA) is designed to keep Michigan residents who fell behind on their rent and/or utilities during COVID-19 in their homes. The CERA application portal is here.

**The CERA program is closed to new applicants unless you have an active eviction case (you received a court summons). For those living in Detroit, Highland Park and Hamtramck who have an active eviction case, go to www.DetroitEvictionHelp.com or call 866-313-2520. Attend your court hearing and ask to speak with an "agency attorney" about rental assistance options.**

• Wayne County's Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) is still open and taking applications. Applicants don't have to have an eviction case to qualify. Renters can't apply for both CERA and the county program. Apply for emergency rental assistance in Wayne County here.

• The State Relief Emergency (SER) program can sometimes provide financial assistance to individuals and families for emergency needs such as heat and utilities. Learn more about how to apply for SER here.

Utility assistance

• The DWSD Lifeline Plan provides 4,500 gallons of water to to income-eligible households at a fixed rate.

• The Water Residential Assistance Program (WRAP) may provide assistance with water bills.

• The Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) may provide assistance with energy bills.

• The Low Income Household Water Assistance Plan (LIHWAP) may provide up to $650 in direct payment assistance for households in arrears or disconnect status.

• We the People of Detroit can assist you with locating emergency water drop off locations, making payment arrangements with the Detroit water and Sewerage Department and navigating various water resources. You can reach their emergency water hotline at 1-(844)-429-2837.

• The 10/30/50 payment plan from the water and sewerage department (DWSD) may help you avoid a shutoff.

• The Shutoff Protection Plan from DTE may help you avoid a shutoff.