The North East Community Action Corporation is suspending taking applications for its new rent-assistance program. The Bowling Green based agency blames the suspension on the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has caused an increase in the number of voucher holders who have lost their jobs or been furloughed. This has resulted in a decrease in the amount participants pay and an increase in the costs for the agency. People who already have rent-assistance vouchers through the agency aren’t affected by the suspension. NECAC is hopeful to begin offering the rental voucher applications again in the fall, however the moratorium could last much longer. NECAC contracts with the federal Department of House and Urban Development to provide about 2,400 vouchers in twelve Missouri counties.