Northeast Community Action Corporation (NECAC) is taking applications for Section 8 rent assistance in 11 counties.

Applications for the waiting list may be accessed online at www.necac.org from any device that can connect with the internet, including computers, tablets and smartphones. NECAC will provide assistance to those without computer access.

Counties covered are Lewis, Lincoln, Macon, Marion, Monroe, Montgomery, Pike, Ralls, Randolph, Shelby and Warren.

The program provides partial rent payments for low to moderate income residents. NECAC makes rent-subsidy payments directly to private landlords for income-qualifying families and individuals on houses, apartments or mobile homes.

Qualifying applicants receive a voucher that pays a portion of participants’ rent depending upon the tenant’s income, number of bedrooms in the unit and the area’s fair-market rent. The rest is paid by the tenant.

NECAC inspects all rental units initially and annually to assure they meet HUD housing quality standards and local zoning standards for safe and clean conditions before rent payments are issued.

NECAC was awarded additional vouchers specifically for qualifying veterans, non-elderly disabled people ages 62 and younger, and foster youth ages 18 to 24. The agency has operated the program for more than 40 years, and administers more than 1,750 vouchers in the 11 counties.

Those who want more information, or do not have computer access, may call NECAC at 573-324-2055.