News Flash

Low-income city residents who are behind on their rent or utilities because of the pandemic can apply for financial assistance starting April 5 under the Emergency Rental Assistance Program. A link to the application portal will be posted at Forsyth.cc/ERAP.

ERAP provides assistance with rent and utilities, to include electricity, water, sewer/wastewater, natural gas, propane and internet. Households may receive up to 12 months of assistance plus an additional three months of assistance if funding is available.

The program is open to all renters in Forsyth County who have been economically impacted by the coronavirus pandemic and have a household income 80 percent or less of area median income, which varies by household size and is $53,400 for a family of four. 

Other eligibility criteria are:

• Behind in utility or rent payments.
• Named on a lease or utility account.
• Qualifies for unemployment OR household experienced a reduction in income (furlough or reduction in hours) due to COVID-19.
• Incurred significant costs or financial hardships due to COVID-19.

Priority will be given to applicants in households with an income of 50 percent or less of area median income; or have been unemployed for 90 days or more due to COVID-19; or have a court eviction pending.

More information, including a chart of income limits by household size and a list of documents that applicants will need, is posted at Forsyth.cc/ERAP.

The city of Winston-Salem and Forsyth County received separate ERAP allocations from the federal government. To avoid confusion, the city and the county have collaborated to create a single application portal for all residents whether they live in Winston-Salem, one of the other municipalities within Forsyth County, or in an unincorporated area of the county.

Applying online is the fastest way to receive assistance. A toll-free telephone number is available to provide more information: 855-838-6776.