Macomb County Launches Program To Assist Renters, Landlords

MACOMB COUNTY, MI — Macomb County has launched a rental and utility assistance program officials said aims to support tenants and landlords who experienced housing-related hardships during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The county announced the launch of its COVID Emergency Rental Assistance (CERA) program on Monday. Applications are open now and being accepted from both tenants and landlords, officials said.

“Many people throughout Macomb County have experienced unexpected financial losses over the last year due to the pandemic, creating a greater need for assistance within our local communities,” Macomb Community Action Director Ernest Cawvey said. “Through the CERA program, we hope to create a brighter future for those who have been impacted by helping tenants maintain housing stability and landlords recoup lost income.”

Officials said a household must have a cumulative income of less than 80 percent of the area's respective median income to be eligible for the CERA program. The household also is required to have qualified for unemployment benefits, experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs, or experienced other financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic and demonstrate a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability evidenced by a past due utility or rent notice.

Renters may be able to receive up to 10-12 months of past-due rental assistance or up to three months of future rental assistance through the program. Up to $2,500 past-due or future utility assistance or a $300 flat fee home internet stipend also are among possible assistance.