Minnesota launches Bring It Home rental assistance program to aid families

A new rental assistance program is set to make waves in Blue Earth County, thanks to funding from Minnesota Housing. The "Bring It Home" initiative aims to address the growing need for affordable housing by providing additional vouchers to families in need.

During the Blue Earth County Board of Commissioners meeting on March 3, 2025, officials announced that the county will receive $360,021, which could support approximately 5 to 7 vouchers. Mankato is set to benefit even more, with $728,393 available for 60 to 80 vouchers. This program is a response to the inadequacy of federal housing vouchers and is designed to work alongside existing housing authorities and tribal nations across the state.

With 917 families currently on the waiting list for assistance in Blue Earth County, the urgency for this program is clear. The initiative specifically targets families with children, aiming to provide support to those who have been underserved in the past. The program will also address homelessness by offering upfront funding for two months of rental assistance, allowing families to secure housing without the burden of immediate costs.

The county plans to collaborate with regional partners, including the South Central Multi County HRA and Minnesota Valley Action Council, to maximize the impact of the funding. A joint application for the program is being considered, with a submission deadline of April 21. This cooperative approach aims to ensure that all available resources are utilized effectively, potentially allowing for additional funding if some jurisdictions do not fully utilize their allocations.

As Blue Earth County moves forward with this initiative, the focus remains on providing critical support to families in need and addressing the pressing issue of housing affordability in the region.