The Commonwealth of Massachusetts launched the Eviction Diversion Initiative (EDI) – a comprehensive set of resources to support tenants and landlords during the financial challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Key components of EDI includes:
- $100 million in emergency rental assistance through RAFT
- Up to $12.3 million to provide tenants and landlords with access to legal representation and related services prior to and during the eviction process, as well as community mediation to bring tenants and landlords together to find a resolution.
- Nearly $50 million for post-eviction rapid rehousing.
More information about EDI can be found here. Informational flyers are available here in English and here for Spanish, along with additional resources and information listed below:
- FAQs related to the EDI can be found here.
- Mass. Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) has launched a one-stop website for renters, homeowners, and landlords in need: https://www.mass.gov/covid-19-getting-help-with-housing-costs
- DHCD has issued guidance for Local Housing Authorities related to the end of the eviction moratorium in PHN 2020-32 posted at https://www.mass.gov/service-details/public-housing-admin-notices. The guidance includes recommendations for LHAs, with the goal of preserving tenancy for as many public housing residents as possible while allowing housing managers to move forward with using the eviction process to enforce leases after making all reasonable efforts to avoid eviction filings
- 2-1-1 has been trained to take calls related to housing issues. Service agencies should be directing people towards 2-1-1 for more information.
- The EDI includes additional resources for the Tenancy Preservation Program (TPP). Renters who have behavioral issues related to disability, those eligible for family emergency assistance, or are older adults, are eligible for TPP assistance. If you are working with someone in this situation, reach out to your local TPP representative available online at https://www.mass.gov/info-details/tenancy-preservation-program