Durham, N.C. — A nonprofit organization is stepping in to help families who were evicted from a troubled apartment complex in Durham.

The managers of Lincoln Apartments notified tenants in September that the complex will close because of financial problems. Many of 150 families living there have since relocated on their own or with the help of the Durham Department of Social Services or Blessed Durham, a nonprofit.

But an estimated 20 households still need assistance, said Terry Allebaugh, executive director of Housing for New Hope, a nonprofit that helps the homeless in Durham and Orange counties.

“For these families and individuals, they have lost their home and stability, and lack the resources to make a transition,” Allebaugh said.

The organization planned to restart a program that would use some city funds to help the families, but the funds will not be available in time. So, they are asking private citizens for help.

The organization has agreed to match up to $5,000 in  donations that come in between now and Christmas. Funds will be used to help residents with deposits, rent and utilities.

Checks can be mailed to Housing for New Hope, 18 W. Colony Place, Suite 250, Durham NC, 27705. Donations are tax deductible.

Volunteers and trucks are also needed to help move tenants to new locations. Contact Cynthia Harris at 919-323-2805 or Cynthia@housingfornewhope.org.