Clay County offering more Emergency Rental Assistance for residents

GREEN COVE SPRINGS, Fla. — Starting Thursday, July 1, Clay County residents negatively impacted by COVID-19 and are at risk of eviction or the loss of basic housing security will have another opportunity to apply for Emergency Rental Assistance funding, officials announced Thursday.

In March, Action News Jax told you Clay County received $6.6 million from the U.S. Department of the Treasury Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) Program, authorized under the Consolidated Appropriations Act (CARES) of 2021.

Eligible expenses include up to 12 months of past due rent, three months of future rental assistance, and rental unit internet and utility costs, officials said.

Applicants can receive up to a total of 15 months of rental assistance through this program.

Extended stay hotel residents are also eligible but must be a Clay County resident and prove COVID-19 impact.

Residents at risk of eviction or homelessness may also apply for homelessness stabilization funds including security deposits and the first month’s rent to secure housing, moving expenses, or for a transitional stay in a hotel or motel until housing can be located.

“The CARES Act has made a big impact in Clay County for individuals, businesses and nonprofit organizations providing food assistance to residents, said Chairman of the Clay County Board of County Commissioners Mike Cella in March. “And now, we are pleased to be able to offer emergency rental assistance to those struggling to pay for rental housing and utilities during this year-long economic crisis.”

The Clay County Emergency Rental Assistance Application Portal as well as frequently asked questions are available at: https://www.claycountygov.com/government/cares-act/emergency-rental-assistance.

Applicants must prove eligibility, provide all required documentation, and submit the application online to be considered. All applicants will receive notification of their application status.

Application status can also be checked by visiting the application portal at any time.

Questions can be directed to Emergency Rental Assistance at (904) 529-4256 or by email at claycares@claycountygov.com.

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