Earlier this month, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a halt on most evictions through the end of the year to prevent the spread of COVID-19. While the order holds off evictions, tenants still owe their rent. Montgomery County residents can take advantage of $5 million in rental and utility assistance available through CARES Act funding.
In an interview with Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley on Facebook Live, Lisa Stempler of the Miami Valley Community Action Partnership said residents should apply for assistance if the reason they cannot pay their rent has anything to do with the pandemic. Reasons could include losing a job, but also having to stay home with children doing online school or not being able to work because of health risks.
She encouraged people to reach out for help and to be open with their landlords, even if it may feel intimidating.
“So many of the folks that are in this situation have never been in this situation before. They've never had to reach out for help. They're not familiar with the situation or how to work the system. People are very skeptical that this money is even available or how difficult it will be,” she said. “Make the call. It's absolutely worth it to have that communication.”
Funds are available to pay rent all the way back to March and through the end of the year. Landlords can apply for assistance as well if they have tenants who are behind on their rent.
Stempler said less documentation is needed than is ordinarily required to apply for services. There are also no income restrictions to be eligible for this funding, which she said is extraordinary.
“I cannot think of a single time where we did not have some income restrictions. Even during the tornado we had income restrictions on assistance that we were able to provide,” she said. “Here, it is anyone who is in need and is legitimately in need.”
Find out more and apply for rental assistance through the Miami Valley Community Action Partnership website or by calling 937-341-5000. Residents in Darke, Greene and Preble counties can also apply for assistance through the organization. Mortgage assistance is available through The HomeOwnership Center.
