Housing Assistance Resources in Ohio
Last updated September 11, 2026
If you're facing eviction, struggling to pay rent, or experiencing homelessness in Ohio, you are not alone—and real help exists. Ohio administers several federally funded programs alongside state and local resources that can provide emergency rental assistance, shelter placement, utility support, and longer-term housing stability. The fastest first step for most Ohioans is to call or text 211, which connects you to a local specialist who can match you with programs in your county.
Eligibility and funding levels shift frequently, so it's important to apply as early as possible and to ask about waitlists even if a program appears full. Many programs prioritize households with children, people fleeing domestic violence, veterans, seniors, and individuals with disabilities—so sharing your full situation when you call helps workers find every option available to you.
The resources below are organized to help you understand what each program covers and exactly how to reach it. If you are in immediate danger of losing your housing tonight, contact 211 first; if you are fleeing domestic violence, the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) can also help locate safe, confidential shelter.
Key programs in Ohio
2-1-1 Ohio
A free, 24/7 helpline that connects callers to local housing resources including emergency shelter, rental assistance, utility help, food, and other basic needs services. Local 211 specialists know which programs in your county are currently accepting applicants.
How to access: Call or text 2-1-1, or visit ohio211.org. Available in multiple languages. Works from any phone, including prepaid or cell phones.
HUD Continuum of Care / Local Emergency Shelter & Rapid Re-Housing
HUD funds a network of Continuums of Care (CoCs) across Ohio that coordinate emergency shelter, transitional housing, and Rapid Re-Housing programs for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Rapid Re-Housing provides short-term rental assistance and case management to help people return to stable housing quickly.
How to access: Contact your local CoC through 211 Ohio, or use the HUD Resource Locator at resources.hud.gov. Your county's Community Action Agency or homeless services provider is often the entry point.
Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA) – Emergency Rental Assistance
OHFA administers state and federally funded rental assistance programs for low- and moderate-income Ohioans. Programs can help cover past-due rent, current rent, and in some cases utility arrears to prevent eviction. Availability and specific program names change as funding cycles open and close.
How to access: Visit ohiohome.org or call OHFA at 614-387-2863 to learn about currently open programs. Your local Community Action Agency (findable via 211) often processes applications on OHFA's behalf.
LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program)
A federally funded program administered in Ohio by the Ohio Development Services Agency that helps low-income households pay heating and cooling costs, preventing utility shut-offs that can lead to housing instability. Keeping utilities on is often a key part of maintaining housing.
How to access: Apply through your local Community Action Agency or county Department of Job and Family Services (DJFS). Call 211 or visit energyhelp.ohio.gov to find the nearest application site and current open enrollment periods.
VA Homeless Veterans Programs (HUD-VASH & SSVF)
Ohio veterans experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness can access the HUD-VA Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program, which combines rental vouchers with VA case management, and the Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program, which provides rapid re-housing and prevention assistance.
How to access: Contact your nearest VA Medical Center in Ohio (locations in Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, Dayton, and elsewhere) or call the VA's National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 1-877-4AID-VET (1-877-424-3838).
Housing Assistance resources for Ohio
Columbus Housing Partnership, Inc, Dba Homeport
HUD-approved housing counseling agency (foreclosure, rental, homebuyer, and reverse-mortgage counseling).
Columbus Urban League
HUD-approved housing counseling agency (foreclosure, rental, homebuyer, and reverse-mortgage counseling).
Ohio State University Extension
HUD-approved housing counseling agency (foreclosure, rental, homebuyer, and reverse-mortgage counseling).
211 Housing & Shelter
NationwideLocal shelter, rental, and housing assistance referrals. Dial 211.
National Low Income Housing Coalition
NationwideResources and local referrals for affordable housing and rental assistance.