Osceola County

Osceola County using coronavirus relief funding to help residents stay in their homes

OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. — Osceola County commissioners have announced three ways they’re using federal coronavirus relief funding to help people struggling to pay rent during the pandemic.

Those methods include eviction assistance, housing assistance and utility assistance, all of which need to be applied for.

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“We want to make sure people stay housed and those renting can apply for assistance,” Commissioner Peggy Choudhry said.

On Monday, the county launched the eviction diversion program targeting those struggling to keep up with rent.

To qualify for the program, you have to be an Osceola County resident, have a driver’s license, proof of a signed lease and proof that COVID-19 has caused you to lose income. Applications are being accepted through Monday.

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Applications for another round of the county’s COVID-19 housing assistance program are also being accepted through Monday. Help will be awarded through a lottery system.

The county also taking applications for utility assistance.

Click here for more information and details on how to apply.

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Sarah Wilson

Sarah Wilson, WFTV.com

Sarah Wilson joined WFTV Channel 9 in 2018 as a digital producer after working as an award-winning newspaper reporter for nearly a decade in various communities across Central Florida.