Your Prevention Plan

STEP ONE

Once You’re in Your Own Home

Purchase renter’s or homeowner’s insurance
Keep enough money in a savings account to cover at least one month’s rent or mortgage and extra for emergencies
When struggling financially, use assistance for food, utilities (HEAP), school clothes, etc. to ensure being able to pay your rent or mortgage
Work closely with a case manager (i.e. JFS, LSS, Fairfield Metropolitan Housing Authority, New Horizons, etc.) to build a support system that will address problems before they are big ones
Do not allow people, other than those listed on your lease, to live with you
Know your lease and what your landlord expects of you. Call him/her if you have questions

When You Have a Problem

Call your landlord as soon as you know you have a problem, such as being late with the rent or can’t pay utility bill, and work out a plan acceptable to both
Call your case manager to discuss your options and form a plan. If you have a section 8 voucher or are living in Public housing call your case manager at Metropolitan Housing Authority
Call Information & Referral to find out what assistance is available, if you qualify, and what you need to do to apply
When you have a problem address it immediately—waiting will only make it worse