Help for those Impacted by COVID

Help for those Impacted by COVID

by | Nov 5, 2020 | Blog

WAYNE COUNTY, OH, Nov. 5, 2020 — Community Action Wayne/Medina (CAW/M) which serves Wayne and Medina Counties, has received a $960,440 Home Relief Grant, through the Ohio Office of Community Assistance. The grant purpose is to assist households impacted by COVID-19 with rent or mortgage payments and to prevent water and sewer disconnections beginning November 2, 2020, with the grant set to expire December 30, 2020.

Ohioans, who are at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level and have fallen behind on rent or mortgage payments, water bills, or sewer payments are encouraged to contact CAW/M to submit an application for assistance. Funds are available for a limited time and applicants are encouraged to reach out early.

“We are thrilled to have this resource available to help our community maintain safe and healthy homes for their families as we recover from the economic fallout from COVID-19,” said Melissa Pearce, CAW/M President/CEO. “Though the funds are available for a short time, this new resource and our experience administering similar programs will help hundreds of households regain some household stability. With housing rent and mortgage payment moratoriums set to expire at the end of the year, as well as the unemployment benefits of many families, this assistance can provide a more hopeful look toward 2021.”

Governor Mike DeWine announced the availability of funds last Friday during a joint press conference with members of the General Assembly. The funding is part of the CARES Act stimulus package and are available until December 30, 2020, adding urgency that the message reaches eligible families. All households that are experiencing challenges in paying past due payments should contact CAW/Mat 330.264.8677to learn more or complete an application.

“Though the eviction moratorium by the Centers for Disease Control has prevented some residential evictions for non-payment of rent and mortgage bills, late fees are still accumulating,” said Pearce. “This funding will make a positive impact, will keep families in their homes now, and will prevent future evictions.”

Residents outside of Wayne and Medina counties can find their local Community Action Agency by visiting https://oacaa.org/agency-directory/.

Download the information flyer HERE.