Local COVID response program wins top state honors

Updated December 14, 2021
A collaborative Roseville and Placer County housing program addressing economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic has received a top award from the California State Association of Counties (CSAC) for 2021.

The CSAC awards spotlight the most innovative programs developed and implemented by California counties.

Placer’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program, a joint effort of the City of Roseville Housing Division and the Placer County Housing Authority, was recognized with CSAC’s Challenge Award for its quick and efficient delivery of cash assistance to those struggling to pay rent or utilities due to pandemic-related income loss.

While many communities throughout the state experienced difficulties disbursing historic levels of federal financial support available through the ERA program, Placer’s two local housing authorities partnered to share funding and develop a single online application platform to rapidly provide assistance to eligible county residents in all local jurisdictions.

“Hundreds of people received emergency assistance thanks to quick action,” said Roseville Housing Manager Trisha Isom. “By cutting through the red tape, Roseville and Placer County were able to provide a critical lifeline when residents and landlords needed it most.”

Also key to the program’s success were local nonprofit partners. The Placer Community Foundation and 211 Placer were contracted to lead efforts to ensure community awareness of the program, and AMI Housing and Sierra Community House helped process applications. 



Learn more about Roseville housing programs by visiting roseville.ca.us/housing