A nonprofit's partnership with New Hanover County aims to help residents struggling to pay their rent, according to a news release.

Wilmington-based New H.O.P.E. CDC will begin accepting applications for its rental assistance program, which will target workforce housing, on Wednesday, the release stated.

"In a city where the average rent hovers around $1,600, well beyond the means of many residents, New H.O.P.E CDC, through a public-private partnership with New Hanover County, is stepping up to address the urgent need for affordable housing," according to the release.

In November, the New Hanover County Board of Commissioners voted to allocate $500,000 to New Beginning Christian Church for rental assistance, for which secular nonprofit New H.O.P.E CDC will handle fund distribution, the release stated.

All applicants must be employed and meet the income requirements to qualify, according to the release.

"In the heart of Wilmington, we recognize the pressing issue of the rental crisis, and it is our duty to respond with compassion and practical assistance. This program is our way of showing love to our community by providing a lifeline to those facing the challenges of making ends meet," said affordable housing advocate Rob Campbell, pastor of New Beginning Christian Church, in the release.

Applications can be found and submitted on the New H.O.P.E CDC website.