Top Nonprofits Providing Rental Assistance in the USA
With housing costs continuing to rise, many individuals and families find themselves one paycheck away from eviction. Fortunately, numerous nonprofit organizations across the U.S. are stepping in to bridge the gap by offering rental assistance, case management, and eviction prevention services. If you or someone you know is struggling to pay rent, here are some of the top nonprofits offering real help.
Catholic Charities is one of the largest nonprofit social service networks in the U.S., operating over 160 agencies in local communities. Many branches offer emergency rental assistance, eviction prevention, and financial counseling.
Services vary by location but generally include:
- One-time emergency rental payments
- Help with utilities and security deposits
- Referrals to long-term housing support
The Salvation Army is a faith-based nonprofit that offers comprehensive housing services, including:
- Rental and utility assistance
- Shelter and transitional housing
- Help navigating local housing resources
Though not available in every city, local corps often assist tenants in crisis through short-term rent subsidies and case management.
Modest Needs is a unique nonprofit that provides self-sufficiency grants to low-income workers experiencing a short-term financial emergency. Many of their microgrants help tenants cover overdue rent to avoid eviction.
What makes Modest Needs stand out:
- Grants never have to be repaid
- No bureaucratic red tape — just direct aid to those in crisis
4. United Way (via 211.org)
United Way operates 211, a nationwide helpline and website that connects individuals with local nonprofit resources, including rental assistance.
Though United Way doesn’t directly fund rental assistance, it acts as a vital resource connector, helping people find:
- Local nonprofits offering rental support
- Community action agencies
- Faith-based support services
5. St. Vincent de Paul Society
St. Vincent de Paul (SVdP) is a Catholic lay organization that supports the poor and vulnerable in communities across the country. Local chapters often provide:
- One-time rental assistance
- Emergency housing help
- Direct volunteer support through home visits
Their mission is rooted in dignity and compassion, making SVdP a trusted source of emergency financial relief.
Family Promise is a national nonprofit focused on preventing and ending family homelessness. Through its network of affiliates, it provides:
- Emergency rental assistance
- Temporary housing
- Case management and job support
Programs vary by location, but their core focus is helping families stabilize and remain housed.
Volunteers of America (VOA) is a faith-based nonprofit that helps vulnerable populations, including seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. Many regional branches offer:
- Emergency rental support
- Permanent supportive housing programs
- Housing for people with mental illness or substance use disorders
VOA partners with local agencies and HUD to deliver targeted help to those most in need.
Final Thoughts
Navigating rental assistance programs can be overwhelming, but these nonprofits offer reliable, compassionate support. While services vary by region, these organizations form the backbone of community-based housing stability efforts.
If you’re facing eviction or are behind on rent, contact these nonprofits directly or use 211.org to find help in your ZIP code. Help is available — and often, just one phone call away.