Resources for Struggling Apartment Tenants: A Guide to Financial Support and Side Hustle Ideas

Living in an apartment can be both convenient and challenging, especially when financial difficulties arise. If you’re struggling to make ends meet as a tenant, you’re not alone. There are resources available to help you navigate these tough times. In this blog post, we’ll explore various organizations that offer assistance with rent, as well as ideas for generating extra income through side hustles.

  1. Rent Assistance Programs:
    • HUD (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development): HUD offers rental assistance programs for low-income individuals and families. Visit their website or contact your local HUD office to inquire about eligibility and application procedures.
    • Salvation Army: This organization provides emergency rental assistance to those in need. Contact your local Salvation Army office to learn more about available programs.
    • 211: Dialing 211 can connect you with local resources for rent assistance, utility bill help, food assistance, and more.
  2. Local Agencies:
    • Minnesota Housing Finance Agency (MHFA):
      • MHFA offers various programs to assist renters and homeowners in Minnesota, including rental assistance, foreclosure prevention, and affordable housing options. Visit their website or contact them directly for more information on eligibility and available programs. Click to learn more about MHFA
  3. Minnesota Energy Assistance Program (EAP):
    • EAP assists eligible low-income households in Minnesota with their heating and energy bills during the winter months. Qualified participants may receive financial assistance to help pay for heating costs. Apply for EAP through your local community action agency or visit the Minnesota Department of Commerce website for more information. Click to learn more.
  5. Side Hustle Ideas:
    • Freelancing: Offer your skills on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer. Whether it’s writing, graphic design, web development, or virtual assistance, there’s a demand for various freelance services.
    • Delivery Driver: Sign up to be a driver for services like UberEats, DoorDash, or Instacart. You can set your own schedule and earn extra income by delivering food or groceries.
    • Online Tutoring: If you excel in a particular subject or skill, consider offering tutoring services online through platforms like Tutor.com or Chegg Tutors.
    • Dog Walking/Pet Sitting: Love animals? Offer your services as a dog walker or pet sitter through apps like Rover or Wag.
    • Renting out Space: If you have extra space in your apartment, consider renting it out on platforms like Airbnb for short-term stays or storage.
  6. Government Assistance Programs:
    • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): SNAP provides eligible individuals and families with funds to purchase food. Visit the official SNAP website or contact your local social services office to apply. Click to to see eligibility and apply in MN
    • Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): TANF offers financial assistance to low-income families with dependent children. Contact your local social services office to inquire about eligibility and application procedures.

Conclusion: Struggling to make ends meet as an apartment tenant can be overwhelming, but remember that there are resources and support available to help you through difficult times. Whether you need assistance with rent, utility bills, or groceries, reach out to organizations in your community for help. Additionally, exploring side hustle opportunities can provide you with extra income to alleviate financial strain. Stay proactive and don’t hesitate to seek assistance when needed. If you are struggling as one of our tenants don’t wait, reach out to us right away for help!