The state is launching a new fund to help renters facing eviction due to unpaid rent.

Utilizing $12.5 million in funding from UniteCT and the Rent Bank, Gov. Ned Lamont said, the new Eviction Prevention Fund will provide households with up to $5,000 to pay off past due rent with their current landlord.

To apply, tenants must call the UniteCT Call Center at 1-844-864-8328 and be screened for eligibility. Eligible applicants will receive direct assistance from a local UniteCT Resource Center, where they will complete the application. If a tenant requires but does not have legal representation, access to mediators at Quinnipiac University’s Center on Dispute Resolution will be provided.

“Housing in our state is too expensive, and UniteCT has been a lifeline for thousands of families at risk of losing their homes. Thanks to federal funding, the Eviction Prevention Fund will make a big difference for thousands of renters facing financial hardships and sky-high rents. But Connecticut has a serious housing shortage, and we need to start building more affordable houses and apartments to lower costs,” Sen. Chris Murphy said in a statement.