Frequently Asked Questions
What is the program’s purpose?
Keep Oakland Housed works to prevent Oakland residents from losing their housing by providing legal representation, emergency financial assistance, and supportive services.
Who is eligible to receive services?
All Oakland residents experiencing a housing crisis who have a household income at or below 30% of Area Median Income, with priority to extremely low-income households. Legal representation will be provided to tenants with an active eviction lawsuit up to 50% AMI. Click here for Area Median Income ranges in Alameda County.
If I am a legal provider, how do I access money to keep someone from losing their home?
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East Bay Community Law Center -
send applications to Catholic Charities
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Eviction Defense Center -
send applications to BACS
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Any other legal provider -
If a single adult(s) – Bay Area Community Services -
If a family with children under 18 – Catholic Charities
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If an adult(s) 18-54 years old: contact Bay Area Community Services
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If a family with children under 18 or an older adult 55+: contact Catholic Charities
What documentation is required to receive financial assistance?
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Completed application with Housing Crisis documentation
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ID or other proof of identify if ID not available
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Proof of Income
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3-day notice, unlawful detainer filings, etc.
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W-9 from Landlord or new lease agreement
Will a check be written directly to residents?
No. We will only create and send check to landlords or third-party providers who provide us with a valid W9. If funds are for additional crisis needs, funds will be paid to the vendor directly.
If I already received support through one organization, can I go to the other organization for further support?
There is no need to go between both agencies to get further support. Each need is reviewed individually and if there is a need that goes above the general amount of money or services, the organization you are working with will continue to help you if that need is identified as a need that can be further supported through KOH.
I received a three-day notice what shall I do?
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If I am an adult(s) 18-54 years old, call Bay Area Community Services at 510-238-5091.
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If I have a family with children under 18 or am an older adult 55+, call Catholic Charities East Bay at 510-768-3100.
I have been served with an eviction lawsuit (Unlawful Detainer) what shall I do?
My landlord is threatening to evict me, what shall I do?
Contact any of the three collaborating organizations. Depending on the underlying basis for the threat, you will be referred to the appropriate agency.
East Bay Community Law Center (EBCLC): 510-548-4040 and ask for housing intake.
What languages are spoken by program staff?
I was recently evicted. Can you help me find a new place to live?
My landlord is harassing me, how can this program help me?
What are your office hours? Are you available to help at night?
Currently, the East Bay Community Law Center and Catholic Charities East Bay are open Monday – Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Bay Area Community Services is 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and is open on Saturdays.
How can others support Keep Oakland Housed?
Individuals interested in helping Oakland residents remain securely in their homes may give directly to any of the three agencies. Foundations and corporate funders who would like to support Keep Oakland Housed, should contact the Donor Services team at the San Francisco Foundation at donorservices@sff.org or 415-733-8590
How is KOH expanding services in response to COVID-19?
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Rental Assistance: Low income tenants in Oakland who have a documented housing crisis like a 3-day notice or proof of layoff or unemployment due to COVID-19. -
Legal Assistance: Low-income tenants in Oakland who have an eviction lawsuit or legal questions concerning their housing. -
Housing Problem-Solving: Oakland residents who are unstably housed, living in motels or other temporary housing and need support to ensure they do not become homelessness.

What is Housing Problem Solving and how will it help?
Housing Problem Solving supports rapid resolution to housing crises for people with unstable housing, including light ongoing support to make sure the solution ‘sticks.’ Problem Solving works with participants to identify options, overcome barriers, develop resolution plans, and carry them out. Flexible financial assistance can be deployed to support a housing option. Problem Solving includes follow-up with tenants and landlords as needed to address other barriers to remaining housed.
Why are there multiple eligibility requirements and different income limits?
Keep Oakland Housed started in 2018 and is funded through private foundations and individual contributions. The collaborative set income limits to prioritize the most vulnerable community members.