The Knox County Public Library is offering help sessions at its multiple locations to aid people with their applications for the Emergency Rent Assistance Program (ERAP). The Library partnered with Knox County Community Development to help people who have been unable to pay their rent due to circumstances related to Covid-19. The Emergency Rent Assistance Program (ERAP) is a federal program that reimburses landlords for back rent from eligible applicants. Applicants (tenants or landlords) must apply online, providing documents confirming eligibility. For one-on-one assistance, the Library is hosting the help sessions on this schedule:
- Monday, July 19, at 5 p.m. at North Knoxville Branch Library
- Wednesday, July 21, at 11 a.m. at Burlington Branch Library
- Friday, July 23, at 2 p.m. at Bearden Branch Library
- Monday, July 26, at 2 p.m. at Murphy Branch Library
- Wednesday, July 28, at 10 a.m. at South Knoxville Branch Library
The Library provides computers, scanning and other equipment needed to apply at all locations. All applicants will be provided with a thumb drive for downloading and storing documentation needed for the application. Walk-ins are welcome with staff offering limited assistance. If the applicant has limited typing skills or English language fluency, they should bring a friend or family member to help; since library staff cannot handle personal documents or enter personal information. For ADA accommodations, call 865-215-8703 or send a request to director@knoxlib.org 72 hours in advance of the program.
Mike Donila is communications director for Knox County government.