How Oklahomans Can Get Help As The Eviction Moratorium Ends

After more than a year, the eviction moratorium for renters ends tomorrow. 

Now, thousands of families are at risk of eviction and the number of eviction filings are expected to increase in August. 

"We are a little nervous. We're prepared and want to be prepared for the worst. We know we will have to dig in and fight," said Greg Beben, a Legal Aid staff attorney. 

Since March of 2020, more than 38,000 evictions have been filed in Oklahoma and more than 15,000 of those have already been granted. Lawyers we spoke to said the other 23,000 evictions were held because of the moratorium. 

If you are one of the families facing eviction in Oklahoma County, Legal Aid is here to help.   

Just bring your eviction notice and lease agreement to the lawyers and make sure you show up for your eviction hearing. You can apply for Legal Aid by calling 211. 

"They can apply with us, apply with us ahead of the docket. Tenants have legal rights, and we will be there enforcing them," said Beben. 

Despite the looming threat, Legal Aid is extremely optimistic, saying they hope the benefits Oklahoma already has in place will keep thousands of families off the streets next month. 

Because of federal funding, Community Cares Partners has $210 million to help tenants who need rent or utility assistance. Only $40 million has been spent. 

"Don't even wait until you get a late notice if it is a struggle to pay rent to apply. Apply now so we can get you in a queue, and we can process your application," said Ginny Bass Carl, the Executive Director of Community Cares Partners. 

Community Cares has already helped 9,000 families. 

They see about 400 applications every day, so it takes about eight weeks to get you the assistance.  

If you or someone you know needs help, you can use this information to file for assistance: 

Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma  

Call 211 for assistance 

Application hotline: 1(888)534-5243 

Community Care Partners: 

https://okcommunitycares.org/en/home/