Top 10 Churches That Help With Rent Harrisburg PA – Get Help

The cost and economic difficulty of the rising housing prices have made it difficult for many low-income people and families to afford rent payments in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Due to a sudden job loss, disaster, domestic violence, or anything else, while people are facing financial difficulties and are unable to pay their rent, which puts to are at risk of becoming homeless soon.

For people who are facing homelessness currently or are at risk of becoming homeless soon, various nonprofit charities and churches step in to help people with a safe and secure shelter to live in. They sometimes help with temporary shelters, sometimes help with financial assistance to pay the rent, or directly pay the past due rent to prevent eviction or homelessness.

Here in this article, through helpforlowincome we will explore the list of churches that help with rent Harrisburg PA, who can get help, how to get help, and many more details for you.

Top 10 Churches That Help With Rent Harrisburg PA

Helpforlowincome has found out the best top 10 churches that help with rent Harrisburg PA. People who are facing financial burden to cover the rental fee can contact these churches. Explore the list of churches now:

1. Christian Churches United (HELP Ministries)

HELP is the central faith‑based hub in Dauphin County offering a robust Rental Assistance Program (RAP) for back rent, security deposits, and move‑in aid. Their walk‑in and appointment‑based intake is available weekdays, and they also coordinate emergency shelters and case management services.

• Address: 413 South 19th Street, Harrisburg, PA 17104
• Phone: (717) 238‑2851

2. Messiah Lutheran Church

Messiah Lutheran partners in food and housing outreach, including a one‑time rental aid up to $350 for qualifying people (e.g., single parents), available twice in a lifetime when referred appropriately. Their Ecumenical Food Pantry, supported by over 50 churches, further strengthens community support.

• Address: 901 North Sixth Street, Harrisburg, PA 17102
• Phone: (717) 233‑6731

3. Ridgeway Community Church (Church of the Brethren)

Ridgeway helps with various services through its ministry fund, offering financial support and referrals for rent as part of its broader care programs. They also run a food bank and provide community assistance services in their commitment to service and peace.

• Address: 525 N. Progress Avenue, Harrisburg, PA 17109
• Phone: (717) 545‑4542

4. Catholic Charities of Harrisburg

As the social services arm of the Catholic Church in the region, Catholic Charities provides housing and rent assistance without religious discrimination, assisting residents with applications, funding, and counseling.

• Address: 4800 Union Deposit Road, Harrisburg, PA 17111
• Phone: (717) 564‑7115

5. The Salvation Army (Capital City Region)

Their Harrisburg branch delivers emergency rent, mortgage, and utility assistance, aiming to keep families housed during financial crises. Support includes connecting to local housing resources and aid for bills and shelter.

• Address: 506 South 29th Street, Harrisburg, PA 17104
• Phone: (717) 233‑6755

6. Antioch Tabernacle

Primarily known for its food pantry and lunchtime meals, Antioch Tabernacle also offers emergency assistance and referrals, including housing-related help, particularly for residents in their neighborhood zones.

• Address: 1920 North Street, Harrisburg, PA 17103
• Phone: (717) 233‑8231

7. Harrisburg Brethren in Christ Church

This congregation operates a monthly food pantry and provides emergency support services that occasionally extend to rent crisis referrals, helping local families in need.

• Address: 2217 Derry Street, Harrisburg, PA 17104
• Phone: (717) 561‑2170

8. Grace United Methodist Church

Grace hosts the Winter Overnight Shelter for women and non‑binary people (Dec–Mar) and serves Sunday breakfasts, often linking shelter guests to rent assistance and community aid programs.

• Address: 216 State Street, Harrisburg, PA 17101
• Phone: (717) 238‑6739

9. Bethesda Mission

Although focused on addiction recovery and shelter, Bethesda Mission is part of a faith-based alliance that connects those in need to housing and rental support networks throughout Harrisburg.

• Address: 611 Reily St, Harrisburg, PA 17102
• Phone: (717) 257-4440

10. Family Promise of Harrisburg Capital Region

Operating through a network of faith communities, Family Promise supports homeless or at-risk families with rent assistance, intensive case management, and goal planning over 12–24 months.

• Address: 56 Erford Rd, Camp Hill, PA 17011
• Phone: (717) 737-1100

These are the top 10 churches that help with rent Madison WI, with address and contact number. So, if you need help, you may directly contact the churches.

• Also read: Churches That Help With Rent Madison WI

Are Churches the Best and Reliable Resources for Rent Assistance? And Why?

Yes, when you’re suffering from a financial crisis or facing a crisis, then only churches are the best solution for you.

Churches have helped communities for many years. They often provide immediate, local help. Many churches collaborate with other nonprofits, offer emergency grants, with their need.

Here’s why churches are the best and reliable, according to helpforlowincome:

• Compassion-first approach: You don’t have to be a church member.
• Faster response times: Most churches act quickly in emergencies.
• Personal guidance: You’ll often speak with a real person who cares.

Whether you’re at risk of eviction or trying to cover a one-time rental gap, churches can offer timely and life-changing help.

Additional Programs that Offer Rental Aassistance Harrisburg, PA

Not only churches, but also there are other additional programs that offer free rental assistance Harrisburg, PA. Here are the programs that are listed:

United Way of the Capital Region

The United Way Housing provides significant assistance to people and families facing instability. They provide rent and utility assistance through various local programs and can connect you to the case manager for a long-term plan. You may call their toll-free number 2-1-1 for further details or assistance.

Dauphin County Assistance Office

This government office offers support programs such as emergency Rent Assistance (ERA), Temporary Assistance (TANF) for needy families, and SNAP benefits. This is an important solution for those who experience financial difficulty and seek official assistance.

HELP Ministries

HELP Ministries provides emergency shelter, rent assistance, and housing stabilization services to people and families in crisis. They work with landlords to prevent evictions and also provide support for utility bills. This nonprofit is known for fast response and compassionate service.

Christian Churches United of the Tri-County Area

CCU partners with churches across Harrisburg and neighboring counties to offer rent help, shelter programs, and homelessness prevention services. They support veterans, families, and people who are in an emergency.

Central Pennsylvania Food Bank

While mainly a food provider, the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank often collaborates with housing and social service agencies. They refer you to programs that help you with rent and utility bills.

If you’re unable to get help from churches, then you can contact these resources for help.

Also read: Churches That Help With Rent MN

Churches That Help With Rent Harrisburg PA Near Me

Churches	Address	Phone No.
Grace United Methodist Church	216 State St, Harrisburg, PA 17101	(717) 238-6739
Help Ministries	413 S 19th St, Harrisburg, PA 17104	(717) 238-2851
Grace House Ministries	1125 S 16th St, Harrisburg, PA 17104	(717) 238-1819
Helping Hands Ministries of Harrisburg,inc	118 State St, Harrisburg, PA 17101	(717) 919-4383
The Salvation Army Harrisburg Capital City Region	506 S 29th St, Harrisburg, PA 17104	(717) 233-6755
Neighborhood Center of the United Methodist Church	1801 N 3rd St, Harrisburg, PA 17102	(717) 233-6541
Harrisburg BIC Church	2217 Derry St, Harrisburg, PA 17104	(717) 561-2170
Community Evangelical Free Church	3640 Ash St, Harrisburg, PA 17109	(717) 545-1354
Bethesda Mission Men’s Shelter	611 Reily St, Harrisburg, PA 17102	(717) 257-4440
YWCA Greater Harrisburg	1101 Market St, Harrisburg, PA 17103	(717) 234-7931

What is ERAP Harrisburg PA?

ERAP means Emergency Rental Aid Program. In Harrisburg, PA Area (covered by Dauphin County), it is a union-funded initiative created under the Consolidated Appropriations Act and the American Rescue Plan to help renters affected by COVID‑19. It provides assistance to prevent eviction and utility shutoffs for past due rent, utility bills, and other related housing costs.

Need Help Paying Rent Asap – What to Do?

If you need help to pay your rent immediately, then you can do these to get help from churches:

1. Call 2-1-1

Call the toll-free number 2-1-1 from your phone (or visit pa211.org) to connect with local emergency rental assistance, shelter, and housing services in your area. It’s free and available 24/7.

2. Contact Local Churches and Charities

Contact to:

• Christian Churches United (HELP Ministries) in Harrisburg
• Salvation Army Harrisburg
• Catholic Charities of Harrisburg

These organizations offer emergency rent assistance or referrals.

3. Visit a Local Housing Office

Go to your county’s housing authority or social services office. Ask about:

• Emergency rental assistance
• One-time hardship grants
• Eviction prevention programs

4. Apply for Emergency Programs Online

Even if ERAP is paused, check:

• COMPASS PA – for housing, cash assistance, and utility help.
• Local nonprofits like Bethesda Mission or Family Promise.

5. Talk to Your Landlord

Be honest and ask for a grace period, payment plan, or temporary reduction. Many landlords will work with you if you show proof that you’re seeking help.

You may do these to get help immediately.

Also read: Churches That Help With Rent in Richmond VA

Who is Eligible to Get Rental Assistance in Harrisburg PA?

Only people who are suffering from emergency situation, are eligible to get rental assistance in Harrisburg PA.

• Low-Income Households: The average income (AMI) of the area should have a total domestic income of less than 80% or below.

• Facing Housing Instability: Must show proof of eviction notice, past-due rent, or utility shutoff.

• Responsible for Rent: Must be a renter (not homeowner) living in a residential property in Dauphin County.

• Valid Documentation: Must provide ID, lease agreement, proof of income, and rent owed.

Priority is given to very low-income families or those facing eviction.

Steps for Applying Church Rent Assistance

Follow these steps to apply for the church rent assistance. Here the steps are described:

✅Identify Churches Offering Assistance

Common providers include HELP Ministries (413 S 19th St, Harrisburg), Salvation Army, and others—check their website or call to confirm rent aid availability

✅Call to Schedule an Appointment

For HELP Ministries, call (717) 238‑2851 Mon–Fri, 8:30 am–4:30 pm. Intake is primarily by phone—walk-ins are allowed only if you don’t have phone access

✅Prepare Required Documents

Bring or submit the following:

• Photo ID
• Lease agreement
• Rent ledger or record of rent owed
• Proof of income
• Landlord contact information
• Eviction or utility shut-off notices (if applicable)

✅Submit the Application

After your intake or appointment, submit all required documents (ID, lease, proof of income, etc.) as requested by the church or agency staff.

✅Await the Decision

Once submitted, your application will be reviewed. This may take a few days. You’ll be contacted if approved or if more information is needed.

✅Follow Up

If you have not heard back within a few days, follow up politely by phone or email. Keep in touch to check the status of your application and ask about the next steps.

Follow these application process steps step by step.

Also read: Churches That Help With Rent in Omaha NE

Conclusion

When life gets tough, you’re facing difficulties, or in an emergency, then churches in Harrisburg step in to help people and families in need. Their rent assistance programs help as lifelines for families, people, and seniors at risk of losing their homes. Contact these churches that help with rent Harrisburg PA, through this website.