Citing an overwhelming number of applications, the state Department of Housing said it has stopped accepting new applications for an emergency rental assistance program aimed at helping tenants out of work due to the pandemic and the recession it caused.

The news deals a blow to landlords who may have been hoping the program would help their tenants make at least partial rent payments.

“Due to the overwhelming number of submissions for assistance received, the TRHAP program will be closed effective immediately,” a notice on the program’s website states. “Please be aware that should Congress and the Federal Administration approve funding appropriate to restart this program, the State is prepared to do so.  Thank you for your interest, and your understanding.”

The CT Mirror reports around 30,000 renters applied for the program, but that number was narrowed down to 7,375 qualified applicants by state officials. However, only two families have so far received assistance, prompting withering criticism from state legislators about red tape and extensive documentation the program seems to require of applicants.

When the the $20 million program was launched this summer, state officials said it would likely only be able to benefit 5,000 households, which are eligible for $4,000 grants that are paid directly to the landlords.

Some municipalities have also set up their own programs using federal coronavirus relief money. New Haven’s program was seeded with $800,000.

The state’s eviction ban runs until Oct. 1, and the federal ban runs until Dec. 31.