The Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA) recently opened applications for a new program offering renters and homeowners impacted by the coronavirus pandemic financial aid.
The agency will provide $175 million in assistance. The program is funded through the PA CARES Plan, which distributes federal aid.
“This assistance program will help ensure we don’t see a surge in evictions and foreclosures next month after executive orders have expired, and the courts can begin processing new cases,” Sen. Vincent Hughes (D-Philadelphia/Montgomery) said. “I am grateful the legislature could come together and help those who were at risk of losing shelter through no fault of their own as a result of the pandemic. We know housing is essential to leading healthy and safe lives, and this program will help provide stability to so many of our people in need.”
PHFA began reviewing applications Monday with the aid of partner organizations in each county.
Renters must submit applications and supporting documentation to the partners, while homeowners can either submit applications on PHFA’s website or by mail. Those interested in applying can find more information on PHFA’s website, the county partners’ websites, or by calling PHFA’s call center.
The deadline for distributing the funds is Nov. 30. However, the government expects assistance will be exhausted before the deadline.