New program to help with rent, utilities for those struggling in the pandemic Shutterstock image METRO DETROIT — The advent of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020 changed everything for everyone, but shutdowns have affected some residents more than others. Michael Centi, department director for integration programs and services with Wayne Metro Community Action Agency, explained that the pandemic caused a huge disruption in some renters’ ability to keep paying their bills. “It, like, swept a rug out from people. Income was just gone at that point,” he said. “You just see it — they were current up until March, and then haven’t been able to pay rent since then or it’s very sporadic. It’s a vicious cycle. You get behind and then you can’t catch up.”