DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. — DeKalb County says it has received an overwhelming response to its rental assistance program for those dealing with the impacts of COVID-19.
The responses led the county to close the application process earlier than expected. Applications are now due by 5 p.m. on Monday.
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The county said more than 7,000 people have already applied for the program as of Friday.
“This has been a huge illustration of the need caused by the ongoing pandemic,” said DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond. “Tenants and landlords alike are suffering because of the financial and economic effects of COVID-19.”
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The county formed the DeKalb Tenant-Landlord Assistance Coalition after it received a $21 million grant from the Federal Emergency Rental Assistance program.
The TLAC rent relief program provides help for paying rent, rent arrearage, utilities, utility arrearage and other eligible housing costs incurred due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Channel 2′s Sophia Choi spoke with a local mother of 5 who planned to apply.
“You know threatened with your lights out, and then evictions every month. It’s hard and it takes a toll on you and your children,” Sophia Williams told Choi.
Residents and landlords can submit an application online through the county website and must also email supporting documents to renthelp@dekalbcountyga.gov by 5 p.m. Monday.
Landlords can apply on behalf of tenants, but renters must meet income limits listed here:
- Family of one: $46,350
- Family of two: $52,950
- Family of three: $59,550
- Family of four: $66,150
Any applicants who have questions can call 404-371-3201 Monday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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