Glendale council tentatively selects flexible rental‑assistance program using anticipated La Casa funds

The Glendale City Council on Sept. 30 approved preliminary selection of housing assistance programs and authorized staff to proceed with program planning using anticipated La Casa rental protection and homeless prevention funds, pending final funding approval and La Casa requirements.

City staff presented three options and recommended a flexible Glendale Rental Assistance and Stability Program (GRASP) paired with continuation of the Life Wrap monthly subsidy rather than a stand‑alone senior rent subsidy. Staff said the city expects $2,100,000 from La Casa for rental protection and homeless prevention; after reserving 20% for legal services and roughly $300,000–$380,000 for staffing and administration, about $1,400,000 would be available for direct assistance in the first year.

Why it matters: La Casa requires that funds be used for households in an immediate housing crisis (at risk of losing housing or unable to resolve an issue that could lead to loss of housing). The council’s preliminary direction lets staff draft program details now so the city can draw down funds when final La Casa guidelines are issued.

Staff presentation and council direction Sipan Zadorian, housing supervisor, described the recommended GRASP as a three‑arm emergency program that would include (1) emergency rental assistance for tenants behind on rent and at risk of eviction, (2) short‑term income support for households that need a bridge to maintain housing, and (3) special assistance for discrete barriers (for…