Housing Assistance Fund (HAF) Program Update & Alternative Resources
Thank you for your continued hard work and dedication in supporting participants. We truly appreciate the many assistance requests submitted on behalf of clients.
We regret to share that the Housing Assistance Fund (HAF) is fully depleted as of January 8, 2026. As a result, we are unable to approve new HAF assistance requests until further notice. The Housing for Health Division is actively exploring additional funding opportunities and will provide updates as they become available.
Exceptions
These changes
do not apply to Behavioral Health (BH) assistance requests, which will continue to be reviewed under existing program guidelines.
Alternative Resources During the HAF Pause
While HAF funding is temporarily unavailable, the following resources may help support participants:
- County General Assistance
Provides monthly financial assistance:
- Single individuals: $520–$809/month
- Two-person households: $644–$1,039/month
Call (888) 421-8080 for more information.
- Behavioral Health (BH) Participant Assistance Fund
Administered by Housing for Health, this fund supports services similar to HAF for eligible BH participants.
Additional guidance on expanded Connector access will be shared soon via a Connector Connections update.
- Community Action Board (CAB) – Rental Assistance Program
Assistance for past-due rent, security deposits, and first month’s rent.
Eligibility: Participants must reside within the City of Santa Cruz.
- Twin Lakes Church – Benevolence Fund
Emergency financial assistance for rent, utilities, medical bills, and other urgent needs.
Contact: info@tlc.org | (831) 465-3300
- Santa Cruz Community Credit Union – 0% Rental Assistance Loan Program
Contact: (831) 425-7708
- Catholic Charities Diocese of Monterey
Financial stability services and case management support.
Santa Cruz: (831) 431-6939
Watsonville: (831) 722-2675
- CalWORKs Families
May be eligible for emergency payments, housing support, or hotel assistance.
Call (888) 421-8080 for more information.
- H4H-Funded Connectors
Many County-funded contracts include participant cost categories. If your position or team is funded by H4H, please consult your supervisor regarding any remaining participant funds.
Note: These funds must be used by the end of June 2026.
We sincerely appreciate your understanding and partnership as we navigate this challenging transition.