As CDC eviction moratorium ends, here are some resources for residents who need a hand

Sarah Loesch
Evansville Courier & Press
Piles of discarded mattresses are commonplace in the alleys and even front yards of Jimtown residents when landlords remove evicted families' belongings.

EVANSVILLE — The CDC eviction moratorium expired Saturday after it was extended in June. 

The moratorium that was scheduled to expire June 30, 2021, was extended through July 31, 2021, and was announced with the intent of a final extension of the moratorium.

Locally, the Commission on Homelessness has said it is possible they will see an increase in evictions as a result, and most local shelters normally operate at or close to full capacity. 

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Timothy G. Weir, administrator for the commission, said they are working to evaluate available capacity and identify other options. 

Weir said if there is a significant increase in homelessness, they will figure out a way to address that as they did health and safety during the pandemic.

Local resources recommended from commission 

The Indiana Emergency Rental Assistance still has funding available to renters in Indiana who have been impacted by the pandemic and need assistance with rent and/or utilities.

IERA assistance covers up to 12 months of rental assistance. Qualifying applicants may also receive utility and/or home energy assistance. This includes help with paying past-due utilities (electric, gas, water, sewer and trash) and home energy (fuel oil, wood, coal, pellets and propane) expenses along with internet assistance for past-due expenses. IERA Application, FAQs and additional information are available at indianahousingnow.org.

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The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau launched an online tool to help renters and landlords find their assistance programs. 

Locally, the commission recommends tenants who would like to seek legal aid in eviction matters contact: 

Indiana Legal Services at 844-243-8570. Intake is completed from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on weekdays. Tenants outside of Vanderburgh County should use this option. 

Legal Aid Society of Evansville at 812-435-5173. Intake is completed from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. on weekdays.

Volunteer attorneys are also continuing to coordinate with the help desk at Vanderburgh County Small Claims Court from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.