NC HOPE Program to Help Residents
The Housing Opportunities and Prevention of Evictions (HOPE) Program is a new statewide initiative of the NC Office of Recovery and Resiliency. The program may provide rent and utility assistance to eligible low and moderate income renters experiencing financial hardship due to the economic effects of COVID-19.
If you are concerned about being evicted, click here to learn how the temporary eviction moratorium may be able to help you.
The HOPE Program is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant program – Coronavirus and the U.S. Department of the Treasury Coronavirus Relief Funds. It will provide $117 million for rent and utility assistance for renters who have been affected by the coronavirus pandemic.
Renters can apply for utility assistance, rent assistance, or both programs. Rent assistance is paid to the landlord on behalf of the applicant. This includes overdue and future rent payments, for up to six months. At least one month’s rent must be overdue at the time of application.
Utility payments will be made directly to the utility provider for up to six months of past due essential utilities, such as electricity, water, sewer/wastewater, natural gas and propane.
To be eligible you must:
- Have been affected by the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
- Have a household income that is 80% of the area median income or lower.
- Occupy the rental property as your primary home.
- Be behind on your rent or utilities when you apply.
