The struggle to make rent in New Jersey continues for thousands of people because of the pandemic.

Ocean County officials announced this week that it will offer a program to help landlords and property managers collect some of those back payments.

Gov. Phil Murphy’s public health emergency executive orders mean that renters who are late or can’t afford to pay rent won’t be forced to leave until after the order is lifted. But landlords still have their own bills to pay.

Ocean County has now launched a program separate from the state for county residents. Landlords can collect now collect back rent payments up to six months and up to $10,644.

Ocean County's Rental Assistance program is first come first serve. The money provided by an $18 million grant from the Treasury Department. Renters who apply cannot be enrolled in any state rental program. Eligibility requirements can be found on the Ocean County official government homepage.

The county will begin accepting applications this Wednesday.