If you’re struggling to keep up with housing costs, help is available at the local, state, and federal levels. Below are some places to start if you need assistance with rent or mortgage payments, are dealing with landlord-tenant issues, or are looking for longer-term housing support. Each program serves different needs, and many can be accessed by calling directly or applying online.
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Rental assistance
- Emergency rent assistance for families is available across Tennessee and Kentucky through the Salvation Army.
- In Davidson County, the Metro Action Commission offers a universal application to connect renters to programs and services, including rental assistance.
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Landlord-Tenant problems
- The Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee & the Cumberlands created this document that lists your rights as a renter, including what to do if you have concerns about garbage, bugs, or rats, or things like your heat, gas, water, sewage, or plumbing.
- If you live in any Tennessee county other than Anderson, Blount, Bradley, Davidson, Hamilton, Knox, Madison, Maury, Montgomery, Rutherford, Sevier, Shelby, Sullivan, Sumner, Washington, Williamson, or Wilson, these different renter rights and protections apply.
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hubNashville
- Nashville's one-stop online portal to report property violations and neighborhood concerns, request city services, and connect with local resources. hubNashville can also be reached via phone at 311 or (615) 862-5000, Monday-Friday 8AM - 5PM and from 8AM - 4 PM on the first and third Wednesdays of each month.
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Mortgage help
- Your local 211 can connect you to help with your mortgage and other resources to help you stay in your home. Call 211 or visit online to connect with available assistance in your area.
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Housing Choice Voucher
- The Housing Choice Voucher program helps very low-income renters, seniors, families, and people with disabilities afford safe, stable housing in the private market. It is a federal rental assistance program funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). In Tennessee, the Tennessee Housing Development Agency administers the program in 72 counties. Learn more about eligibility and applying.
Our viewers are the best! When Hannah McDonald highlighted the plight of Serenity Sumler, so many of you immediately stepped up. Serenity stopped to help a driver after spotting a wreck and was hit by another car, resulting in terrible injuries. Without the funds to pay for physical therapy, she was at a loss. Because of the kindness of others - she now can rehab and get back to school. Best of luck to her as she trains to become a chef!
- Carrie Sharp
