January 27, 2022 3:00 a.m.

On Wednesday, Oregon Housing and Community Services again began accepting new applications for the Oregon Emergency Rental Assistance Program.

An OHCS release said this will be a limited reopening of at least three weeks, based on availability of funds. The agency estimates there are enough funds to support 6,700-9,300 additional renters, who will be prioritized based on those who have the most need, not on a first-come, first serviced basis. OHCS was forced to pause the intake of applications on December 1st because the agency did not have sufficient federal funds to serve additional renters.

The release said to serve the most households, applications are being offered for first-time assistance only. The program will not be offering utility assistance. Tenants seeking utility assistance may access additional Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program resources at the local level from community action agencies. Renters who submit new applications can access protections from eviction for nonpayment of rent while their application is being reviewed and processed. OHCS will begin processing these new applications and paying out funds in about three to five weeks. Applications for tenants who applied before the OERAP application pause, will be processed before applications received on or after Wednesday, as directed by the Oregon State Legislature