PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. — Calvert County residents who have been financially affected by the pandemic may be eligible for current and future rental or utility help through the Emergency Rental Assistance Program.

Renters who have struggled financially because of the pandemic may apply at https://www.calvertcountymd.gov/FormCenter/Community-Resources-28/Rental-Assistance-Form-288.

“This program is open to anyone who meets the eligibility criteria, which currently has something to do with the issues they have that are certified. They have shown that COVID-19 financially affected them. They also need to be below 80% of the area’s median income,” Jacquelyn Culver, Special Programs Manager, said.

Each application will be assigned to a local housing agency within three business days of submission. Renters will need to provide the following documentation to determine eligibility:

  • A copy of the lease agreement
  • Proof of late rent or utility bill
  • Financial Information
  • Proof of COVID-19 impact

Currently, the program is still distributing the $1.8 million in Emergency Rental Assistance Program grant funds. The first round of funding was delayed because there have been significant process changes.

“There have been process changes along the way with this funding. They have come down through the treasury, which can be very challenging, but my staff has done a very good job pivoting,” Jennifer Moreland, Community Resources Director, said. “Sometimes the changes were process improvements like the certification for COVID-19 impact.”

Although the first round of payments was delayed, they have approved $769,000 worth of assistance to 109 households. Most of the applicants were around 30% of the median household income and were unemployed for at least 90 days, according to Jennifer Moreland.

Also, it should be reiterated that this program helps with future and past due rent or utility expenses.

If you or someone you know in Calvert County have struggled financially because of the pandemic, you may apply at: https://www.calvertcountymd.gov/FormCenter/Community-Resources-28/Rental-Assistance-Form-288.

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