Right Stuff About Renting (RSAR)

In Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, the Community Action Committee of Lehigh Valley (CACLV) operates a program called the Right Stuff About Renting (RSAR). The program works with tenants and landlords to solve problems that could lead to eviction. RSAR offers a series of seminars conducted by volunteers with expertise in various aspects of tenancy and property management. The seminars are based on a guide for landlords and tenants initially published by CACLV in 1990. RSAR was implemented in 1998 with funding from the state department of community and economic development, Community Development Block Grant funds, private foundation support, and funds from the Department of Housing and Urban Development. RSAR merged with other CACLV programs in 2003 to form Community Action Financial Services (CAFS), under which a continuum of financial and housing-related services are offered to area residents.

The Community Action Committee of the Lehigh Valley is commited to improve the quality of life in the Lehigh Valley by building a community in which all people have access to economic opportunities, the ability to pursue those opportunities, and a voice in the decisions that affect their lives.

Tenant and Landlord Seminars are offered throughout the year, along with small group sessions offered at local nonprofit agencies. There are no eligibility requirements to participate in the seminars or to receive counseling. Services provided include Individual Development Accounts, emergency mortgage assistance and homeownership counseling. Between July 2003 and March 2004 CAFS held two tenant seminars and 24 small group sessions. In addition, nearly 500 individuals sought counseling to gain information on resolving landlord-tenant disputes.