COVINGTON, Ga. -- The Salvation Army in Covington began accepting applications today, April 18, for federal COVID-19 emergency funds to help pay housing and utility bills past due because of pandemic-related job losses or health problems.

Officials with the agency, however, gave a warning to potential applicants.

"Applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-serve basis," officials said on a checklist given to potential applicants.

"There is no guarantee of approval by submission of application."

The Newton County Board of Commissioners hired the Salvation Army in Covington to accept applications and distribute funds given to the county for distribution through the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

It is among $10.8 million the county received for distribution to assist with the recovery from the pandemic.

Beginning today, April 18, residents must pick up an application packet from the Salvation Army at 6193 Washington St. SW in Covington to receive some of the $700,000 Newton County commissioners allotted to rental and utilities assistance from federal ARPA funds. Applications will be taken until the funding runs out, county spokesman Bryan Fazio said.

Salvation Army officials note applicants must be Newton County residents.

"We are only able to help in cases where you are behind on your rental, mortgage or utilities bill," Salvation Army officials say on a "Financial Emergency Services Checklist."

It stated that those behind in paying both a rental or mortgage and utilities bills should include both statements.

Applicants will be required to provide a completed application, a copy of the applicant's photo ID; a rent or mortgage verification form and a W-9 form if applying as a private landlord.

Application packets can be picked up -- and completed packets dropped off -- inside the social service entrance of the Salvation Army Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. .

The application can be viewed here.

For more information email: christal.guthrie@uss.salvationarmy.org.