Nueces County launched a $1.7 million program to help renters keep a roof over their head. The program is designed to help those in danger of being left homeless because of job loss due to the COVID-19 pandemic. iStock image
Eviction notices have increased countywide along with unemployment numbers since the onslaught of the COVID-19 pandemic. In response, Nueces County launched a nearly $1.7 million Emergency Rental Assistance Program on Thursday, July 22. This is in addition to the ERAP program provided to Corpus Christi residents in December 2020.
Using locally administered federal funds, the program is designed to provide rental and utility assistance to individuals and households at risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Safe and stable shelter is the cornerstone of all other basic needs,” said Nueces County Judge Barbara Canales. “If you have a place you call home, you can find a job, go to school, go to work, and take care of your family.”
Nueces County was granted $1.7 million that can be paid directly to landlords, who also have the ability to apply for aid directly.
Rental assistance is covered as far back as April 2020, and forward rent can be paid up to three months. A limit of 15 months' rental assistance can be provided. Program funds are also available for use on major utilities and up to 15 percent of rental late fees. ERAP will not cover mortgage assistance.
“We need to protect our most vulnerable because we know when people have a roof over their head, they can get back on their feet,” Canales said. “The Emergency Rental Assistance Program, ERAP, is here to bring help for those who need it. I encourage renters and landlords who have suffered economic losses due to COVID to apply for assistance as soon as possible.”
Residents of Corpus Christi and Nueces County can apply online or call 361-724-3085. For those without online access, applications are accepted at La Retama Central Library, 805 Comanche St., on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
