The state of New Mexico distributed more than $100 million to help residents pay rent and utility bills during the COVID-19 pandemic, KRQE reported.
Approximately 30,000 households received assistance through the Emergency Rental Assistance Program, according to the Department of Finance and Administration.
The program will continue through 2025 and awards, on average, $4,000 for rent and $750 for utilities, KRQE said.
"The Emergency Rental Assistance program is available to New Mexico households who need help paying for rent and utilities," according to the program's website. "This assistance can be used for past unpaid, current, and future rent and utility payments."
The money is not a loan, the agency said. "It is assistance given to households so that they can stay in their homes rather than face eviction."
Payments will be sent directly to residents' landlords or utility providers.
The program does have income limits that could affect eligibility, according to the website. Assistance may vary based on the county where the resident lives.
Find out more here.
