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Linn County Rental Assistance Program Gets Second Year of Funding

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/1 .. istance-program-gets-second-year-of-funding.html
  Published in House and Home on Tuesday, February 17th 2026 at 3:27 GMT by The Gazette
      Locales: Iowa, UNITED STATES

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA - February 17th, 2026 - Linn County's pioneering Rental Assistance and Eviction Prevention Program is poised for a second year of operation, building on a remarkably successful initial run that saw over 2,100 households stabilized and significant strides made in addressing the growing housing insecurity within the county. The program, initially launched in July 2023 with a $5 million allocation from the American Rescue Plan Act, has demonstrably exceeded expectations, prompting the Linn County Board of Supervisors to unanimously approve a continuation funded by $2.4 million in remaining ARPA funds.

The program's core function has been to provide direct financial assistance to renters facing difficulty with monthly payments or the looming threat of eviction. While many communities grappled with the expiration of pandemic-era protections and a surge in eviction filings, Linn County's proactive approach appears to have mitigated some of the worst impacts. In 2023 alone, the program disbursed $3.3 million in direct rental assistance, preventing countless families and individuals from experiencing homelessness.

However, the continued need for such a program underscores the deeply rooted and complex nature of the housing affordability crisis impacting Linn County - and indeed, much of the nation. While the American Rescue Plan provided a crucial temporary lifeline, experts warn that systemic issues require longer-term, multifaceted solutions. Rising property taxes, stagnating wages, and a limited supply of affordable housing units all contribute to the squeeze on renters, particularly those with lower incomes. The program isn't simply handing out money; it's a triage system responding to an ongoing, escalating emergency.

"We are thrilled with the success of this program and the positive impact it has had on our community," stated Linn County Supervisor Chairwoman Linda Grask. "But we also recognize that this is not a permanent fix. This program buys time, allowing families to get back on their feet, but we need to address the root causes of housing instability."

The success of the Linn County program isn't solely attributable to funding. A key component has been the strategic collaboration with local community organizations. St. Luke's United Methodist Church, Iowa Legal Aid, and the Cedar Rapids Salvation Army have served as vital partners, extending the program's reach and ensuring that assistance reaches those most in need. These organizations provide critical outreach services, assisting residents with navigating the application process and offering ongoing case management to address underlying issues contributing to housing instability. Iowa Legal Aid, for example, has been instrumental in representing tenants facing unfair eviction practices, while the Salvation Army offers broader support services, including job training and financial literacy programs.

"The community partners have been invaluable in reaching those who needed help most," Grask emphasized. "Their local knowledge and established relationships with vulnerable populations are essential to the program's effectiveness."

Looking ahead, Linn County officials are exploring potential long-term strategies to address the affordable housing shortage. This includes incentivizing developers to build more affordable units, examining zoning regulations to allow for increased density, and advocating for state and federal policies that support housing affordability. The county is also researching innovative funding mechanisms, such as housing trust funds and public-private partnerships, to sustain housing assistance programs beyond the ARPA funding window.

The program's impact extends beyond simply preventing evictions. Stable housing is directly linked to improved health outcomes, educational attainment, and economic productivity. By keeping families housed, the program reduces strain on social services, lowers healthcare costs, and contributes to a stronger, more vibrant community.

Residents interested in learning more or applying for assistance can visit the Linn County website at [ https://www.linncounty.org/322/Rental-Assistance ]. The program's continuation for a second year provides a much-needed respite for struggling renters in Linn County, but the ongoing housing affordability crisis demands sustained attention and a commitment to long-term solutions.