A COVID relief rental aid program ends 6/30/22, but there is still time to apply for help

This is from an article in the Detroit Free Press, “Statewide rent aid program will stop taking new applications June 30. What to know.” by Nushrat Rahman, 6/15/22.

“A statewide program to help families catch up on rent payments and avoid eviction will stop taking new applications after the end of the month.“ 

The COVID Emergency Rental Assistance (CERA) will continue to take applications for assistance until 9 p.m. June 30, 2022. 

“The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) — which is responsible for administering the $1.1 billion program that's been in place for a little more than a year — said that it will continue processing applications until all funds are used up. 

“Those who have already completed a CERA application should check their status, but should not apply again because that can slow down the overall processing time, said Julie Schneider, acting director of the city's [Detroit’s] Housing and Revitalization Department.”… 

"The program provides up to 18 months of rental assistance for qualifying applicants who faced economic challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. It can also be used to help pay for utility bills. Applicants must be below 80% of the area median income. …Applicants must also show proof of financial distress since the pandemic began, such as qualifying for unemployment or having a past due rent notice.“

“…Funds will continue to go out to those who are approved until Sept. 30, or until aid runs out…” 

The article has more information for people living in Detroit and assistance available there.