It is clearer than ever that the economic and housing crisis that has accompanied the health crisis we are currently in is not going away any time soon. One of the most urgent needs our neighbors are facing is the need for rent assistance.

In the previous months, the Coronavirus Emergency Relief Fund (CERF) had provided much needed rental assistance to residents in Princeton, but the fund has dissolved. The town is currently figuring out what will replace CERF. In the meantime, Housing Initiatives of Princeton (HIP) and Unidad Latina an Acción (ULA) continue to provide integral rental support to neighbors.

But in this transitional period, without a central organization like CERF, the need for rental assistance far exceeds what is currently available in resources. As we receive an increasing number of asks for rent support from our neighbors, we are launching a temporary Rent Fund to try and meet this need. 100% of the money raised will go directly to neighbors to help pay rent, until a replacement for CERF is established. In particular, we seek to support those who may not receive support elsewhere. Our goal is to raise $5,000 and if you are able, we hope you will consider contributing and sharing widely with your networks.


We recognize that the housing crisis arises from systemic issues, such as the lack of affordable housing in Princeton as well as the failures of the federal government to provide a safety net for everyday people. At Princeton Mutual Aid, we will continue to advocate for long-term solutions to the housing crisis and to build a future where people have autonomy and power and are connected to each other. Learn more about Princeton Mutual Aid at princetonmutualaid.com, join the network at tinyurl.com/PrincetonMutualAid.