Fayetteville, N.C. — The eviction moratorium that protects renters and homeowners from losing their homes expires this weekend – but some counties are working to help residents who are in need.
Cumberland County has money available to help residents pay past due rent and utility bills.
The Fayetteville and Cumberland County Rental Assistance Programs (RAP) has $6.5 million to dish out for those in need. The money doesn’t just benefit renters – it can also help landlords, who have also taken a financial hit during the pandemic.
Shannon Pow, who operates several rental properties in Fayetteville, says the cost of evicting residents can be more than helping good residents stay in their home.
“Their units have to be cleaned. They might not have cleaned the stove or behind the refrigerator. So, you’ve got to pay a cleaner. You’ve got to pay a painter. Your carpet may be a couple of years old,” said said, listing some of the common landlord expenses that come along with an eviction.
Kristopher Burrus, who lost his job and his rent money because of COVID, was two months behind on his rent.
“The RAP program paid that two or three months,” he said. “But check this out: They paid the next three months for me while I try and get on my feet.”
Sadie Covington needed rental help, too. The RAP program paid her utility bills.
Each resident who needs help from RAP fills out an application to get started. RAP has around $10 million to give away. They’ve already provided support for a lot of people, but they still have a lot left for those who need the help.
More information about the RAP program can be found on their website FayettevilleCumberlandrap.com.
Live in another county, but need help with rent? The state has $800 million to distribute.
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