Lakewood Residents Can Get Help Paying Rent Amid Coronavirus

LAKEWOOD, NJ — Lakewood residents who are struggling to pay their rent and make ends meet during the coronavirus pandemic may be eligible for rental assistance through a state program.

The COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Program will provide up to six months of temporary rental assistance to low- and moderate-income households that have had a substantial reduction in income or became unemployed due to the pandemic.

The program is operated by the state Department of Community Affairs.

Assistance will be capped at the fair market rent standard or the total of the rent, whichever amount is lower. All participants will be reviewed three months in to see if they are still in need of assistance.

Applicants must meet income and eligibility requirements and must be at least 18 years or or be an emancipated minor.

Participants will be selected through an online lottery process.

Applications for the initial process can be submitted online beginning at 9 a.m. July 6. The application link here, accessible by computer, laptop, smartphone, or tablet, will not be accessible before 9 a.m. July 6. Enrollment ends July 10 at 5 p.m.

Additional information is available on the state website.

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