JEFFERSON COUNTY, Texas — Evictions are on the rise in Southeast Texas, but there might be some help for those struggling to pay rent.
Jefferson County Precinct 1 Constable Jevonne Pollard said on average she went from serving 70 eviction notices a month to more than 200 a month.
"The money that was going out to people during the COVID crisis is starting to dry up," Constable Pollard said.
Federal money that was handed out during the hard times of the COVID-19 pandemic is almost done and the nationwide ban on evictions is over. Officials believe this means there's not a lot of support for renters who fall behind.
The issue has left Southeast Texans turning to non-profit organizations such as Some Other Place for help.
"It's really based on urgency and need. What we're trying our best to do is make sure we capture your situation," said Executive Director of Some Other Place Chris Robertson.
Robertson said in January alone, they took more than 200 calls asking for help with rent or utilities.
"The services we offer are contingent on the support we get so continuing to support the agency is important," Robertson said.
Robertson said they rely on both federal and local grants to continue rent and utilities assistance programs
"Even the places we get grants from are supported by individual donors or companies during COVID. They supported them less and so there's less money to even write grants from after the pandemic," Robertson said.
Robertson said those who need help can call 409-832-7976 and his team will set them up with an application and an appointment for those in need to state their case.