Applications for $175 million of state funding for rental and mortgage assistance are now available, and the funds will be distributed in counties on a first-come, first-serve basis. The program is managed by the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA). Visit www.PHFA.org  for details and eligibility criteria.

PHFA  recently shared implementation details for the new state COVID Relief Mortgage and Rental Assistance Grant Program on a webinar sponsored by the Housing Alliance of Pennsylvania. Here is a link to the webinar recording.

The Federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act, passed in March, provided $3.9 billion for Pennsylvania and is intended to help people hurt economically during the pandemic. In late May, the General Assembly directed $175 million of these CARES dollars to PHFA to provide assistance for struggling renters and homeowners. The portion for rent assistance is at least $150 million.

PHFA has identified organizations in all 67 counties to process the large number of rent relief applications anticipated.  Those seeking assistance will submit applications and supporting paperwork to these county organizations for review, following instructions in the application.

PHFA’s call center is open weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. to answer questions. Call 1-855-827-3466 for assistance. County organizations will also be able to assist. Here is a link to the CARES Rent Relief Program County Contact List for the appropriate agency to contact in each county.