New Emergency Rental Assistance Program ambassador location open in Venice to help county residents

Ambassador available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays

A map shows where the new Emergency Rental Assistance Program service is located in Venice, marked by the red balloon. Image from Google Maps

To increase program services available in South County communities, a new Sarasota County Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) ambassador location has been opened in Venice, Sarasota County staff reported this week.

In partnership with Gulfcoast Legal Services and United Way of South Sarasota County, an Emergency Rental Assistance Program ambassador is available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at Gulfcoast Legal Services/United Way of South Sarasota County, which is located at 4242 S. Tamiami Trail in Venice, a news release notes. No appointment is required.

“Ambassadors can assist with the ERAP application and provide guidance on necessary steps and paperwork,” the release explains.

These are details about eligibility criteria for rent payment assistance through the federal program. Image courtesy Sarasota County

“We are excited to have a greater presence in South County and expand our partnerships with local organizations,” said Sarasota County ERAP Manager Laurel Varnell in the release. “This is a great opportunity to provide ERAP assistance to more people within our Sarasota County community.”

North Port Social Services, located at 6961 Outreach Way, also serves as an ambassador location, but by appointment only, the release points out.

For more information about Sarasota County ERAP and a full list of ERAP ambassador locations, visit scgov.net/rent or call 941-861-RENT (7368).