Dear neighbor,

In California, homeowners and renters spend more than thirty percent of their total household income on rent and utilities. In the time of a global pandemic, this means many families are experiencing intensified economic hardship due to loss of income, increased health needs and new lifestyle adjustments.

With LA County's eviction moratorium coming to an end on September 30^th, 2020 tenants are wondering how they will pay the rent that is owed. While legislation is currently under negotiations at the state level, there are also resources available to you now.  Renters in LA County who have experienced reduced work hours or job loss as a result of COVID-19 and who cannot afford to pay rent may be eligible for rent relief. To apply to LA County's COVID-19 rent relief program, please make sure to submit your application by August 31^st, 2020. You may apply at 211la.org/lacounty/rentrelief which is available 24/7, or dial 2-1-1 between 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. For more information on eligibility requirements click here.

Homeowners may also take advantage of programs offered by their respective lenders. If you have a home loan, whether it is owned by the government, a charter bank, or private institution, you may be eligible to reduce or delay payments for up to 12 months through a Forbearance Plan or Agreement and your lender may also be limited in initiating a foreclosure. You may contact LA County foreclosure counselors at (800) 973-3370 to get help with foreclosure avoidance options or call LA County Consumer and Business Affairs  at (800) 593-8222 for information about what to do if you fall behind on your house payments and how to deal with your lender.

If you or someone you know needs help obtaining resources for rent or mortgage relief, please call my office at (562) 256-7921.

All the best,

Lena Gonzalez
33^rd Senate District