Two new programs for those struggling with housing due to Covid-19

Two new housing assistance programs funded by the CARES Act will help eligible households struggling with lost income due to Covid-19 make rent or mortgage payments. The programs, CARES Housing Assistance and CARES Eviction Rent Assistance Program (ERAP), are being implemented by the Whatcom County Health Department in cooperation with local partners.

The health department expects to spend over $3.3 million in federal CARES funds between the two programs. The CARES Housing Assistance program, which will provide supplemental housing payments to eligible households, is expected to serve approximately 200 households earning between 50 and 80 percent of the area median income.

The health department also expects “significantly more households will benefit” from ERAP, which is similar but available to households earning less than 50 percent of the area’s median household income, which is $59,285, according to 2018 census data.

Both programs will be available until the end of the year or until funds are exhausted.

In addition to meeting income requirements, applicants must “have experienced income loss due to Covid-19, lack resources to pay their rent or mortgage, hold the lease or mortgage contract for their home, and not be receiving other funding intended for the same purpose,” according to the health department.

To complete an application and verify eligibility, those seeking assistance through either program are encouraged to contact the Opportunity Council at 360/734-5121 ext. 316 to schedule an appointment. After receiving the necessary documents verifying eligibility, both programs will issue checks to landlords or mortgage lenders on behalf of
the resident.