SALISBURY, Md. - According to the Wicomico County Sheriff's Office, they have made 74 evictions since evictions resumed in August.
On Monday, Maryland Governor Larry Hogan announced $19 million in eviction prevention grants. $900,000 of which will go to Wicomico County.
"The reality is that the COVID related rental assistance only helps people who were economically impacted by COVID," says Molly Hilligoss, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Wicomico County.
The catch is anyone who struggled with rent prior to the pandemic, cannot apply for a grant. "They would not be eligible for the current assistance," Hilligoss says, "if they were on disability and just had extra medical expenses, that doesn't given them access to that funding which is really unfortunate."
One of the biggest misconceptions when it comes to evictions is people believe there is no one to help, says former manager of the city of Salisbury's Neighborhood Relations, Kevin Lindsay. Lindsay says even if you haven't paid your rent for several months, it does not mean you will immediately be evicted.
"With the eviction process, it has to go through the court system," Lindsay says, "your landlord can't show up and say 'you gotta be out of here tomorrow' without proper paperwork from the court system."
Another piece of advice offered is to renew your lease. Molly Hilligoss says it gives a tenant more power when it comes to the possibility of eviction.
Maryland Residents: If you are struggling to pay rent you can find assistance here --> https://dhcd.maryland.gov/Residents/Pages/COVID-19RentalTenantsGuidance.aspx
Delaware Residents: If you are struggling to pay rent you can find assistance here --> http://www.destatehousing.com/OtherPrograms/ot_dehap.php
Virginia Residents: If you are struggling to pay rent you can find assistance here --> https://www.vhda.com/about/Pages/VH-COVID19.aspx