PORTLAND (WGME) — The City of Portland has announced a rental relief fund of $500,000 and allowing residents to apply for up to $2,250 over three months for rent and utilities. But even as the city offers help, the pandemic is making to tougher for those relying on and supplying subsidized housing.

The pandemic has been a double hit to agencies like Avesta housing, which is having a tougher time helping residents both now and in the future.

“People who have safeties and housing are not leaving or moving,” said Avesta CEO, Dana Totman, “our move-out (rate) this year compared to last year has just decreased significantly.”