Stay Plus program aids renters

A federally funded program, administered in the state, is designed to help renters in Oconee, Pickens, and 37 other South Carolina counties stay safely in their homes during the pandemic by providing payments directly to landlords and utility companies.  The CDC recently extended a federal moratorium on evictions until October 3 for counties still battling the spread – which includes every South Carolina county.  Renters in Anderson and six other counties have their own programs to assist residents.  SC Housing recently changed the Stay Plus program to help renters complete applications and get the help and support they need.  By last Thursday, the program reported it had approved 2,205 of the completed 2,931 applications for a total of $10.4 million in rental and utility assistance.  In-person support is available in Pickens County at the Hampton Memorial Library, 304 Biltmore Road, Easley Monday through Thursday 10:30 am to 5:30 pm;  Fridays from 10:30 am to 4:30 pm; and Saturdays 9:30 am to 12:30 pm.