Since January 2020, COVID-19 has been spreading around the world and has impacted all 50 states, Washington D.C., and U.S. territories. Currently, the U.S. is under the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) order halting evictions in counties with substantial or high rates of transmission (as defined by the CDC) which will expire on October 3, 2021. 

In Maryland, all but two counties are in this category; Carroll and Queen Anne’s counties are both currently at “moderate” rates of transmission. Expiration of the moratorium means landlords will be able to submit a “petition for warrant of restitution” for tenants that haven’t paid rent. 

Jewish Community Services (JCS), an agency of the Associated, has been the lifeline for those needing assistance during this pandemic. To date, through funding from The Associated, Baltimore County and Baltimore City, JCS has assisted 172 households with $660,614 in COVID-19 rental assistance since the beginning of the pandemic.  

Our ability to serve the community is dependent on these revenue streams and without them we would not have been able to, and will not be able to, serve the community in the same way. Households who have never needed assistance before are now struggling financially and are facing eviction. 

A recent U.S. Census Household Pulse Survey shows that just under half of households behind on rent believe that eviction is likely within the next two months. (Household Pulse Survey Interactive Tool. U.S. Census Bureau. Accessed 8/30/21.) 

As the October 3 deadline approaches, JCS is gearing up to help those that need rental assistance even more. JCS is ready to provide rental assistance to eligible Baltimore City and Baltimore County residents that are behind on their rent and have experienced loss of income due to COVID-19 (along with other eligibility requirements). This critical work will help individuals and families stay in their homes.  

JCS in partnership with The Associated and our local governments is here to help! With the eviction moratorium about to expire, JCS is prepared for the anticipated surge in renters in need of assistance.  

To determine if you are eligible for rental or other financial assistance or if you need other assistance including mental health supports and career support, please call JCS at 410-466-9200.