(PRESS RELEASE) – Anoka County currently has a variety of funding sources to help qualifying renters and homeowners who have been affected by COVID-19 since March of this year.
The county wants to ensure this funding is allocated to those who need it, and that the proper documentation is filled out correctly, so applications are processed in a timely fashion.
The funding sources include:
- Anoka County Community Action Program (ACCAP) Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding – This program, which is available to only Anoka County residents, can provide money for qualifying renters and Section 8 recipients. Applicants must be at or below 400 percent of the Federal Poverty Guideline to qualify. Funding for this program expires Nov. 15, 2020. More information on eligibility requirements and how to apply can be found here: accap.org/crisis-assistance/.
- COVID-19 Housing Assistance Program (CHAP) – This program can provide money for rent, mortgage, contract for deed, utilities, association fees and homeowners insurance. Applicants must be at or below 300 percent of the Federal Poverty Guideline to qualify. This funding, which expires Dec. 30, 2020, is available to those who live in the counties of Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Scott and Washington Counties. To receive CHAP funds, a pre-application and an application must be filled out, either by calling 211 (toll free: 1-800-543-7709) or by visiting housinghelpmn.org. Information on the full application process can be found here: housinglink.helpjuice.com/chap.
- Salvation Army CARES Act funding – This program is available to only Anoka County residents and can provide money for rent and utilities. Applicants must be at or below 300 percent of the Federal Poverty Guideline. Funding for this program expires Nov. 15. More information on eligibility requirements and how to apply can be obtained by calling 763-755-6873, ext. 5, or emailing maria.valley@usc.salvationarmy.org.
Note: To ensure your application is processed in time to be considered for funding, please fill out all application materials as soon as possible. More information on these three programs can be found at anokacounty.us/2689/Basic-Needs.
“The impact of COVID-19 in our communities has been profound, and many people are struggling to pay for rent, mortgages, utilities, and other housing-related expenses,” said Scott Schulte, chair, Anoka County Board of Commissioners. “There are programs available for those who are experiencing pandemic-related housing challenges, and we want to stress that qualifying residents should apply soon before funding expires.”
