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Landlords could get up to $2,000 from Metro government to rent to homeless people

The Housing and Support Division aims "to connect houseless people in Louisville to housing."

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — A new program from Louisville Metro government is incentivizing landlords to help more people get a roof over their heads.

According to a news release, property owners who partner with Louisville Metro Housing and Support Division can now get a financial incentive to rent to homeless individuals. 

The Landlord Incentive Program offers up to $2,000 to landlords who agree to rent their properties for 12 months to clients in the Housing and Support Division.

Nasir Properties owner Lameshia Cunningham has properties throughout west Louisville and is looking to expand with a purpose. She also substitutes and sees a need for foster children leaving the system to find housing.

"If I can help someone along the way, I think that will be a wonderful thing for me," said Cunningham.

So she connected with the manager of the Housing and Support Division, Joe Hamilton. 

Hamilton said the housing division's goal is to "provide stable housing and the transformation that can come from stable housing."

“We have a huge need for more affordable housing in the community and we often struggle to find suitable and decent housing for our clients in a timely manner,” Hamilton said. “This new program will incentivize and encourage new landlords and property owners to partner with us to provide stable housing for some of our most vulnerable citizens.”

Landlords who participate will get $1,000 once they meet with Housing and Support staff and agree to rent their properties to people in the program. They can also get the other $1,000 after the 12 month lease ends. 

Cunningham has some hesitations.

"If there's damages that come along with my property, who's responsible with these damages?" said Cunningham.

Hamilton said there are safeguards such as monthly monitoring and a second security deposit if there are damages. Plus, when it comes to rent payments, the program can help pay segments or up to the full rent until the tenant gains employment. 

"I would say give us a chance," said Hamilton. "A lot of the national data has reiterated that housing really is the answer. Even though that we may think somebody is not ready for housing, it's quite the opposite in reality." 

He said he found people in similar programs across the country were able to maintain their lease for 12 months.

Hamilton said the hope is this incentive will increase property owner and government partnerships. Currently, there are about 60 partnering properties in the Housing and Support Division, with a goal to double that amount.

Click here to learn more and get connected with the division. 

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