Minnesota State Wire

Statistics show that in Minnesota, federal rental assistance helps struggling seniors, people with disabilities, veterans and working families keep a roof over their heads, often by helping them afford rental units they find in the private market. 

Ten million people in over 5 million low-income households receive federal rental assistance in the state.

According to data produced by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, more than 200,000 people in 100,000 Minnesota households use federal rental assistance to afford modest housing as 72% are seniors, children or people with disabilities. Rental assistance helps 159,600 people in cities and suburbs, as well as 40,900 people in rural areas and small towns.

Data for the center also reveals that three in 10 low-income people in Minnesota are homeless or pay over half their income for rent. Most don’t receive federal rental assistance due to limited funding.

The center states that when low-income renters can't find a decent, affordable apartment, they are more likely to be evicted and risk becoming homeless.