CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services announced Monday that it has begun to receive funding that can be distributed to low-income families facing eviction pay rent and utility expenses.
DHHS says the money will go through its Community Action Agencies as part of the federal Community Services Block Grant. Evictions are currently frozen in North Carolina through June 21 as part of Governor Roy Cooper's executive order, but many families are facing excessive bills because they've been unable to pay during the pandemic.
"With the economic disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Governor's moratorium on evictions and utility shutoffs is the only thing keeping many families in safe and stable housing," said NCDHHS Secretary Mandy Cohen, M.D. "This flexible funding will allow our Community Action Agencies to continue to meet a wide array of needs in our communities, including helping families remain in their homes when the moratorium is lifted."
CAAs are nonprofit organizations that were created under President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1964. To be eligible for CSBG-funded services, individuals and families must be at or below 200% of the federal poverty level.
"Community Action Agencies have helped bridge gaps for low wealth residents and communities for 55 years," said Sharon Goodson, Executive Director of the NC Community Action Association. "They provide comprehensive services like case management, transportation, housing, employment, education, child care, eviction and emergency assistance programs to ensure low wealth residents increase and maintain their economic stability."
To apply for help, contact your local Community Action Agency. For additional information on the CSBG funding or contact information for the 33 Community Action Agencies in North Carolina, visit ncdhhs.gov/csbg-contacts.