Wake program helps those struggling to pay rent, utility bills amid pandemic

Wake County and the City of Raleigh are providing more than $33 million in federal aid to people struggling with paying their rent during the pandemic.

Posted 4:47 p.m. Mar 9, 2021 — Updated 6:22 p.m. Mar 9, 2021

RALEIGH, N.C. — Wake County and the City of Raleigh are providing more than $33 million in federal aid to people struggling with paying their rent during the pandemic.

The House Wake! COVID-19 Financial Assistance Program will provide monetary support to tenants, landlords and utility companies to cover part of a tenants' rent or utility bills. The program is designed to help those struggling with job loss and other problems brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Those who need help can assistance for up to 12 months of past-due rent and unpaid utilities dating back to April 1, 2020. Utilities covered include: Electric, water, sewer, gas/oil, trash and internet service.

"Like millions across the country, many in our community are struggling to make their monthly housing and utility payments," said Wake County Board of Commissioners Vice Chair Vickie Adamson.

Here are the qualifying conditions:

A household must live in Wake County and be able to show proof of residency
Have a legally binding North Carolina lease that covers the assistance period
Demonstrate that they have suffered financially from COVID-19
Have an income that does not exceed 80% AMI, with priority given to households below 50% AMI, based on household size
Be at risk of homelessness or housing instability if rent or utility bills remain unpaid.

Those interested can apply at wakegov.com/housing

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