Program announced for eligible Clinton County renters impacted by pandemic

LOCK HAVEN, PA – Clinton County has more than $2.5 million to distribute to eligible county tenants negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Jeff Rich from the administering Clinton County Housing Coalition offered details on the Emergency Rental Assistance program at the county commissioners’ Monday work session. The funds, Rich said, flow through the state Department of Human Services and applicants can find information at www.compass.state.pa.us. He said applications may be submitted online or a paper application may be submitted; that form is available at the rear of the housing coalition’s Life Center at 330 E. Main Street in Lock Haven.

Rich said eligibility amounts will be based on the applicant’s annual median income. The program is designed to assist those delinquent in their rent or utilities because of circumstances pertaining to the pandemic. Once approved, Rich said, payments can be made immediately. There is a 12 month window, extending from March of 2020 and moving forward through the end of this calendar year. Payments will be made quarterly for qualifying tenants.

County planning director Katy de Silva complimented Rich and his staff for “getting assistance to the people who need it.”