Arkansas City officials say the economic impact of the pandemic has left many Kansans unemployed or underemployed, uncertain how they will pay rent. While moratoriums provide temporary protection from eviction, rent continues to accrue each month, leaving tenants unsure how they will pay arrears, and leaving landlords without monthly income to pay bills and manage maintenance and upkeep. Kansas Housing Resources Corporation has worked closely with the Kelly administration, the Office of Recovery, and the Department of Children and Families to create the Kansas Eviction Prevention Program, which is designed to decrease evictions and increase housing stability by assisting landlords and tenants experiencing financial hardship due to the COVID situation. Through the program, landlords and tenants apply for up to $5,000 per household to pay delinquent rental payments dating as far back as April 1st of this year. Payments will be made directly to the landlord, who must agree not to evict the household for nonpayment of rent for the months of assistance received. Landlords must also agree to waive any late fees accrued during the months for which assistance is received. Applications must be received by November 30th, and program funds must be expended by December 30th.