Extra Federal Funds Available To Help Struggling Florida Renters

FLORIDA — For Florida families struggling to pay rent, there may be some hope around the corner.

The Florida Department of Children and Families announced Thursday that the state has received an additional $740.4 million from the federal government to help cover rental costs for eligible families impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“DCF is on a mission to support families in their greatest time of need, and the OUR Florida program is another example of our efforts to assist Florida families on their road to economic self-sufficiency. OUR Florida has provided relief to more than 164,000 households, keeping families safe in their homes throughout 2021 and into 2022,” said DCF Secretary Shevaun Harris.

According to the state, Floridians who rent a home, apartment, or other dwelling can apply for relief through OUR Florida, also known as Opportunities for Utilities and Rental Assistance. Since launching in May 2021, the program has distributed more than $858 million in funding to more than 164,000 households across Florida.

The state said it recently accepted a second round of emergency rental assistance funded by the U.S. Treasury to help Florida renters "get on the road to recovery and economic self-sufficiency."

“The extension of the emergency rental assistance program and the corresponding additional relief funds will accelerate Florida’s recovery and help those in need," Harris said.

To be eligible for benefits, renters must be low income or unemployed, experienced a loss of income or financial hardship during the last year, and behind on rent or utility payments, or at risk of falling behind.

To learn more, visit OURFlorida.com