$35M rent relief program kicks in today as eviction moratoriums sunset

CONCORD - Homeowners and renters facing a tough go making their July rent and mortgage payments will be getting some help from the state as Gov. Sununu on Tuesday unveiled a $35 million package that kicks in as the state moratorium on evictions and foreclosures sunsets today.

The program is designed to give what Sununu called an "off ramp" to help Granite Staters still trying to get on their feet after the state's three-month economic shutdown that put many out of work.

The fund will also help those struggling with payments for utilities like electricity and water, which will be able to shut off those who are behind on their bills beginning July 15.

New Hampshire residents can see if they qualify by going to capnh.org or calling 211 to find out how to apply for the funding, which will be disbursed as onetime grants for households or short-term rental assistance.

Meanwhile, state epidemiologist Benjamin Chan reported 22 new COVID-19 cases on Tuesday, but no new hospitalization. He also reported four additional deaths, all at longterm elderly care facilities.

He said recent numbers show an average of 30 new cases a day with a 2-3 percent infection rate. He said about a third of those who test positive are asymptomatic.

Sununu also sounded a warning alarm on the state's economic shortfall due to the pandemic, announcing the state is likely to take a $540 million hit on revenue lost in the form of tolls and hospitality and meals taxes.

He noted that the state expects to get some more federal help but there is no guarantee, especially with the current haggling over another relief bill in Washington.

As a result he said he has instructed all state departments to eliminate discretionary spending and put a hold on capital improvement projects.

More NH COVID numbers

NH Persons with COVID-19 5,782

Recovered 4,463 (77%)

Deaths Attributed to COVID-19 371 (6%)

Total Current COVID-19 Cases 948

Persons Who Have Been Hospitalized for COVID-19 565 (10%)

Current Hospitalizations 37

Persons Being Monitored in NH (approximate point in time) 3,550