Today, Howard County Executive Calvin Ball announced that the County is providing $60,000 to Maryland Legal Aid (MLA) to assist residents facing eviction and other legal challenges as a result of the pandemic.

Many Marylanders are facing evictions due to financial challenges presented by the financial crisis resulting from the pandemic. Following an end to the state eviction moratorium, and with advocates suggesting there are loopholes in the newly issued federal moratorium, many are concerned for tenants and homeowners struggling to pay housing expenses.

“With the Courts re-opening this week, there is an immediate need for legal assistance to support tenants in demonstrating substantial loss of income-related to COVID-19,” said Ball. “We’ve seen more than 46,000 residents file for unemployment since March, and there are many of our neighbors who are unable to afford private attorney assistance on top of their daily needs.”

The grant from Howard County will help MLA provide court representation, virtual education, and community outreach efforts.

For more information view the press release.