The federal government passed two relief packages to help people who have been hard hit by the pandemic pay rent and utilities.

Money for the second program is set to be rolled out in May. 

The LeeCARES program in Lee County has its portal open now, where applicants can see if they are eligible. 

According to the LeeCARES website, Lee County will pay up to six months of past due rent and utilities and three months of prospective payments for qualified households, plus ongoing payment of future rent, as permitted. However, rental assistance cannot exceed a total of 12 months for each qualified household.