Orange County commissioners have voted to extend the county’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program.

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The program was scheduled to close on Sept. 30. But now, more money will become available through Emergency Rental Assistance 2. That program is scheduled to begin Oct. 1.

For the first time, people whose rent has been increased can get assistance, not just people who have been struggling due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

READ: Small businesses feel the pinch from slowing housing market

Commissioners on Tuesday also discussed the root of the affordable housing problem in Central Florida.

Commissioners got to see some in-depth data on the housing crisis, showing the county needs to get several thousand additional homes built to meet the need, and hopefully reduce everyone’s housing costs.

READ: Local leaders aim to curb rental housing crisis in Orange County

The county is looking to hire about 52 people in development services.

READ: Congress weighs proposals aimed at helping military families keep up with housing costs

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