Jan 21, 2021 11:04 AM DeLand, FL - The new COVID-19 stimulus bill passed last month includes $25 billion for emergency rental assistance. Volusia County has been told that its share will be $16.7 million. During Tuesday s (January 18) meeting, the Volusia County Council gave its approval to the county’s Community Services staff to launch the grant program once the money is received. Also in this stimulus package, eviction protection has been extended until January 31. Close to 8,000 applications for rent and mortgage assistance were approved using funds from the $27.5 million provided by the first stimulus bill. The deadline was December 30, 2020, and applications are still being processed according to Community Services Director Dona Butler. While the program was approved, the Council also authorized the hiring of up to 15 temporary county employees to help manage the program and process the rental assistance applications. The positions are program manager, two