The Burlington County Commissioners want to remind homeowners that more than $1 million in mortgage and utility assistance is still available for local households impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Substantial assistance has already been awarded to dozens of Burlington County households through the Burlington County Emergency Mortgage and Utility Assistance Program and funding remains available for additional awards to households in need assistance.
The program relies on federal COVID-19 aid from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Income-eligible residents with documented COVID-19-related financial hardships are eligible to receive up to six months of assistance for outstanding mortgage payments or utility bills.
“From the earliest days of the pandemic, Burlington County has sought funding and created programs to provide residents with as much help as possible,” said Commissioner Felicia Hopson. “This program has already assisted dozens of households and there is still funding available to help lift families back on their feet and out of foreclosure.”
To be eligible, homeowners must reside at the property and meet household income limits. Applications are considered on a first-come, first-served basis. Interested homeowners should submit a preliminary application online at www.tfaforms.com/4913684.
Community Grants, Planning and Housing, a Cranberry-based firm specializing in affordable housing and home improvement programs and grants, is assisting the County with processing applications. Residents with questions can call a program representative at 609-642-9213, ext. 58 or email jbreslin@cgph.net.
Hopson, who serves as the Commissioners’ liaison to the Burlington County Department of Human Services, said the County continues to look for ways to help residents and businesses navigate the pandemic and its economic impacts.
“We’ve worked with partners in the State, federal government and nonprofit and private sectors to do everything we can to help keep residents in their homes and businesses from closing,” Hopson said. “We’ve made a lot of progress but we know there are still homeowners who are behind on payments or struggling. Everyone deserves to have a roof over their head, so we’re grateful we have funding remaining for this vital program and we’re encouraging those in need to apply right away.”
