Californians can still apply for the COVID-19 rental relief program, but they need to act fast.
Gov. Gavin Newsom on Wednesday encouraged California residents to apply for a program that covers 100% past due and upcoming payments on rent. Newsom wants people to apply before the eviction moratorium is lifted on Sept. 30.
There are $5 billion in rental relief that is available for low-income tenants like Carmen Nares, who just applied last week.
"I actually didn’t pay my rent since January so I am getting a lot of help with my rent and all my bills," Nares said Wednesday.
The program also covers water, utilities and internet fees. Newsom said over $1 billion has been requested so far.
"We are encouraging others that may not be aware, or may need a little bit of a push to take advantage of this program," Newsom said. "And here is why: After Sept. 30, the likelihood that we are going to extend an eviction moratorium is very modest."
Newsom said mass evictions would lead to more problems with homelessness throughout the state. The governor expects to sign a bill on Thursday to direct $12 billion toward housing and homelessness.
For those who qualify, rent from last April through this September can be covered under the rental relief program, regardless of immigration status. More information can be found here.
