The city of Mesa continues to accept applications for the 2021 emergency rental and utility assistance program in response to COVID-19’s financial impact to Mesa residents.

Funded through the U.S. Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021, the program provides rent and utility assistance to prevent eviction and homelessness, according to a release.

“We have helped many Mesa residents through this program, but there is an ongoing need and funding from the ERAP program is available to help many more,” Mayor John Giles said in the release. “Rent and utility assistance provided by this program will offer much needed relief to renters and homeowners still facing serious financial challenges from the pandemic.”

Since the ERAP funding became available in early February, the city has helped more than 1,100 households in Mesa with more than $5.5 million in rent and utility assistance.

To qualify, you must be a city of Mesa resident impacted by COVID through a significant life-changing event such as loss of job, reduced hours and medical expenses. Your household monthly gross income must be at or below 80% of the median depending on the number of household members. Priority will be given to applicants who have any household member unemployed for the last 90 days or longer due to COVID or the total household income is at or below 50 percent of the area median income

Applicants to the 2021 ERAP program must have documentation including a photo ID, proof of income for all household members for the last 60 days, a current lease agreement and a current utility bill. Assistance is based on availability of funding.

Online and paper applications are available at mesaaz.gov/mesacares. Residents needing assistance completing the application may visit MesaCAN (Mesa Community Action Network), 635 N. Broadway, Monday to Friday between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. They may also call 480-644-5440 or email ERAPinfo@mesaaz.gov for assistance.