Emergency Assistance Programs
Rental Assistance Resources
Find rental and utility assistance resources in Minnesota, including statewide help and local programs in Austin, Albert Lea, and Owatonna.
Start here: If you have fallen behind on rent or are worried that you might, check RentHelpMN to see if you qualify for rental and utility assistance.
Statewide Resource
RentHelpMN
RentHelpMN was created to help Minnesotans who have fallen behind on rent or are at risk of falling behind. Eligible renters may receive help with rent and utility bills dated on or after March 13, 2020.
Qualified renters may receive up to 15 months of total assistance.
Austin, Minnesota
Austin Salvation Army
Emergency rent and utility assistance may be available up to twice in a five-year period.
409 1st Ave NE, Austin, MN 55912
Phone: 507-437-4566
Semcac Mower County
Offers emergency assistance for rent, utilities, and furnace repair or replacement.
111 North Main, Suite 201, Austin, MN 55912
Phone: 507-433-5889
Fax: (507) 437-8419
Mower County Health and Human Services
The Emergency Assistance program provides one-time financial help to pregnant women or families with minor children facing a housing crisis.
Emergency Assistance
201 1st St NE, Suite 18, Austin, MN 55912
Phone: 507-437-9700
Albert Lea, Minnesota
Freeborn County Department of Human Services
Family Emergency Assistance (EA) helps families with children when a child’s health or safety is at risk.
Emergency General Assistance (EGA) helps people without children during crisis situations such as eviction or utility shut-off, if funds are available.
203 Clark St W, PO Box 1246, Albert Lea, MN 56007
Phone: 507-377-5400
Salvation Army
Emergency assistance funds may be available for housing and utility bills.
302 Court St, Albert Lea, MN 56007
Phone: 507-373-8776
Semcac
Emergency assistance funds may be available for housing and utility bills.
204 West Clark Street, Albert Lea, MN 56007
Phone: 507-373-1329
Owatonna, Minnesota
Minnesota Prairie Alliance - Steele County
Emergency General Assistance helps people without children during crisis situations such as eviction or utility shut-off, if funds are available.
630 Florence Ave, Owatonna, MN 55060
Phone: 507-431-5600
Salvation Army
Emergency assistance funds may be available for housing, utility bills, and car repair.
545 Dunnell Drive, Owatonna, MN 55060
Phone: 507-451-7134
Transitional Housing of Steele County
Offers rental assistance programs for single adults and families, as well as eviction prevention and support for victims of domestic violence.
560 Dunnell Drive #212, Owatonna, MN 55060
Phone: 507-446-9315