FREDERICK, Md. -- Frederick County residents who are behind in their rent because of the COVID-19 pandemic may be eligible for an emergency rental assistance program, Frederick County Executive Jan Gardner announced today. The new program is a partnership between Frederick County, the City of Frederick, and the nonprofit Religious Coalition for Emergency Human Needs, with more than $3 million being set aside to help renters.
Executive Gardner said, “With state eviction protections expiring in a few weeks, we know many people are at risk of losing their housing. This partnership is a fast, effective way to assist those who suddenly found themselves in need.”
"We know that our community feels the impacts of COVID-19 daily, and many tenants are struggling to pay their rent. This collaborative rental assistance program makes it easy and quick for our residents to apply for and receive funding," shared City of Frederick Mayor, Michael O’Connor. "Our work must continue to ensure housing stability and to prevent avoidable homelessness."
“The Religious Coalition is happy to provide any amount of calm inside the chaos,” Executive Director Nick Brown said. “Through these unusual times, we’ve appreciated the community’s support, and we now work to keep this community whole and housed.”
The emergency aid can be applied to rent due for up to three months, dating back to April 2020. Eligibility is based on current income and family size. For example, an individual who earns no more $55,750 a year may qualify, while the annual income limit for a family of four is $79,600. A copy of a lease or rental agreement is required, as well as proof of COVID-related financial hardship. Tenants of public housing or other government rental assistance are not eligible. Details are available here.
Applications will be accepted for five days, beginning at 8 a.m. Monday, July 13, until 7 p.m. Friday, July 17. To apply, visit www.RCEHN.org/covid-emergency-rental-assistance. For those without internet access, call 301-631-2670 ext. 127 for information on how to apply. If financial hardship is not COVID-related, renters may contact the Religious Coalition regarding non-COVID rental assistance.
###