Eligibility:
Up to $1,200 for one month of rent one time in a 12-month period. The amount paid is based on the actual amount of rent. The Focus Forward fund can only consider the student eligible for the Focus Forward Fund’s portion, not that of a roommate(s).
Documentation:
Students will need to take a photo of the first page of their lease that states the name(s) of the tenant(s) and the amount of monthly rent. Students should upload that document as cost documentation on their Focus Forward request.
Payment:
Paid by check payable to the apartment complex/landlord or paid online to the apartment complex/landlord.
Payment notes:
Once the request has been approved, AFFCF will contact the apartment complex. Most apartment complexes can accept an AFFCF check for payment even if they publicly state they do not take checks or can only take cashier’s checks.
An online payment may be an option, but this means the amount of the Focus Forward rent payment will be $40-$50 lower due to credit card processing fees, so a check payment is preferable.
If payment will be made to an individual landlord, the landlord must be willing to provide a W-9 tax form, as AFFCF will issue a 1099 tax form at the end of the year.
Unless an online payment is made, students can pick up the check from AFFCF and provide it to the leasing office/landlord or AFFCF will mail students the check to provide it to the leasing office / landlord.
Other Resources:
- 211: You can call 211 to be connected with emergency resources for paying rent, if available where you live. You just dial “211” on your phone to be connected or utilize the website: https://211arizona.org/
- The City of Phoenix has limited assistance for eviction prevention for individuals experiencing a crisis.
- Residents of Maricopa County (Phoenix, Mesa, and Glendale) can seek rental assistance below:
https://www.maricopa.gov/5582/Rental-Assistance - Residents of Maricopa County (cities other than Phoenix, Mesa, and Glendale) can contact their local Community Action Program (CAP) to inquire about rent assistance: https://www.maricopa.gov/5682/Community-Action-Program-Offices
- Residents of Coconino County, Mohave County, and Yavapai County can apply for one-time assistance for unexpected and/or emergency situations, bills, or payments, such as such as temporary loss of income, a car repair or medical bill, to help individuals avoid foreclosure or eviction. Assistance can include one month of a past or future rent or mortgage payment. Grant ends by June 30, 2026, or until funds have been expended. www.coconino.az.gov/HousingSecurity
- Residents of Pima County can apply for emergency rent and utility assistance, as well as view other assistance programs available in Pima County: https://housing.az.gov/general-public/rental-assistance-eviction-prevention-programs/pima-county
- Residents of Southern Arizona can contact St. Vincent de Paul of Southern Arizona, which can help with rent and utility assistance, clothing, and furniture: https://svdptucson.org/how-we-help/
