Marion County Approves $15M Rental Assistance Program Contract with Health and Human Services

Marion County Commissioners have approved a significant funding initiative aimed at enhancing rental assistance programs in the region. During the meeting on July 23, 2025, the commissioners voted to authorize a special procurement that will allow the Marion County Health and Human Services to act as a fiscal intermediary for the distribution of up to $15 million over five years. This funding will support multiple programs, including the MHS 12 rental assistance program, which is designed to assist individuals and families facing housing instability.

Currently, the county serves approximately 120 clients monthly, with plans to expand this reach to 300 individuals. The funding will facilitate various contractual agreements, streamlining the process for landlords to receive payments after validating contracts with clients. This initiative is expected to significantly impact the community by providing essential support to those in need of housing assistance.

In addition to the rental assistance program, the meeting also addressed an intergovernmental agreement with the Oregon Department of Human Services. This agreement, now in its fourth amendment, focuses on a successful pilot program aimed at preventing children from entering foster care or aiding in their reunification with families. The program has shown a 78 percent success rate in housing families, with 46 families housed since its inception.

Commissioners expressed the need for ongoing data collection and analysis to track the effectiveness of these programs, including the challenges faced by families in securing housing. The discussions highlighted the importance of collaboration with community partners to ensure the success of these initiatives.

As Marion County moves forward with these programs, the focus remains on addressing the pressing housing needs of its residents, with a commitment to improving outcomes for families and individuals facing barriers to stable housing.