Montco Distributes $25 Million To Prevent Evictions Amid Delta

NORRISTOWN, PA — With the delta virus continuing to spread in Montgomery County and around the region, officials have ordered a stay on all eviction proceedings until at least early October. They've also distributed some $25 million in aid to renters suffering because of the pandemic, in an effort to keep people in their homes.

The eviction stay was an administration order given by Montgomery County Court of Common Pleas President Judge Thomas M. DelRicci, in an effort to give individuals more time to get assistance together before payment was due. The stay is in effect for 30 days, starting Sept. 3.

"We thank the Courts for their quick work to intercede and protect vulnerable rental households in Montco,” Montgomery County Commissioner Val Arkoosh said. "Our message to families is that help is available, and we urge them to apply for rent and utility assistance if they have been negatively impacted by COVID-19."

The $25,608,503.15 in emergency rent and utility assistance disbursed by the county has served 9,496 county residents. Most of this assistance — about two thirds of it — has gone to those within the poverty bracket.

Individuals within certain high-risk zip codes are being prioritized for assistance: 19401 (Norristown), 19405 (Bridgeport and West Norriton), 19406 (King of Prussia), 19464 (Pottstown), 19446 (Lansdale), and 19027 (Elkins Park).

The county has received national recognition for its rental relief work during the pandemic. It's listed by the Treasury Department as showing "promising practice" in community partnership with Your Way Home, and is also cited by the National Low Income Housing Coalition for the ease of its application process.

If you need assistance, call 2-1-1, or see the county's website for rental assistance here.