Dear Friend --

Today, we launched our new $30 million emergency rental assistance program to assist tenants with rent and to prevent eviction.

This program is a huge part of our Long Beach Recovery Act and will assist both renters and small property owners who are struggling to pay their mortgage. Folks can find out more and begin their application by going here.

We know the pandemic has caused massive hardships for local residents who are struggling to pay the bills. We are hopeful this new program will help thousands across the city.

To be eligible, tenants must rent in Long Beach and meet the following criteria:

• The household has a household income at or below 80% of the area's median income.
• One or more individuals within the household has experienced a financial hardship due, directly or indirectly, to the COVID-19 pandemic; and
• One or more individuals within the household can demonstrate a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability.

To learn more about the program and various income and eligibility guidelines, including for property owners, please visit longbeach.gov/erap.

This is one of the many focused efforts we are making as a city to help our people and our community build back and thrive as we come out of this pandemic.

Thank you and stay safe,

Mayor Robert Garcia