(La Porte, IN) - People behind in their rent because of COVID-19 are urged to seek assistance.  The federal eviction ban, which was due to expire on June 20, has been extended through July.

Center Township Trustee Lisa Pierzakowski says there is funding available but many

renters have not applied and hopes they use the extra month to get the process of relief started.  Pierzakowski said one COVID-19 relief program offered by the state pays up to 12 months of back rent.  “Get in and we’ll help you get started on that Indianahousingnow.org.

Pierzakowski says many landlords have not been paid by tenants impacted financially by the pandemic for six months or more and they’re ready to serve eviction notices once the eviction ban is lifted.

She said pandemic related qualifications include being hurt financially by job loss, sickness and not returning to work to take care of children at home.