Eviction Diversion Resource Center program launched at Rochester Hall of Justice

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A new Eviction Diversion Resource Center (EDRC) has been launched at the Rochester Hall of Justice to help people with cases in Rochester Housing Court.

The new program was announced Monday by Monroe County Executive Adam Bello, Seventh Judicial District Administrative Judge Bill Taylor, and Melissa Barrett, district supervising judge for city courts Melissa Barrett.

The initiative will provide residents facing evictions with direct access to essential financial assistance programs and resources. The Eviction Diversion Resource Center is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., every Monday and Friday.

Located on the mezzanine floor of the Hall of Justice, the Resource Center will provide help from Monroe County Department of Human Services (DHS) staff available to assist tenants with rental assistance applications and eligibility screenings for SNAP, childcare support, and other benefits.

The Resource Center is the first of its kind in a state courthouse outside of the New York City area.

“The nationwide affordable housing crisis has led to an uptick in eviction cases across our community. As more eviction cases are entering the court systems, it is clear that underlying issues like food insecurity, transportation and affordable childcare can make it harder for families to afford rent. The Eviction Diversion Resource Center addresses this issue by connecting tenants directly with the supports and services they need,” Bello said in a news release.

The Resource Center “represents a holistic approach to tenancy preservation when possible and aligns with the Seventh Judicial District’s commitment to access to justice for all,” Barrett said in the release.

In addition to DHS support, the Center also will provide access to on-site paralegals through civil legal service providers, who will work directly with tenants and landlords to mediate disputes and facilitate eligibility processes.

Tenants appearing at the Hall of Justice should bring:

• Identification
• Verification of household composition
• Documentation of household income, including wages, and unearned income, such as child support, SSI, SSDI or other income
• Landlord statements or documents showing rent owed by month and year.