Applications accepted starting March 15 for residents affected by COVID-19
Hamilton County officials on Wednesday announced the opening of the Hamilton County Emergency Rental Assistance Program (HC ERAP) for renters who have experienced a financial impact due to COVID-19. Applications will be accepted beginning at 9 a.m. on Monday, March 15.
Earlier this year, Hamilton County was awarded a $10 million Emergency Rental Assistance grant from the U.S. Department of Treasury for COVID-19 assistance. Specifically, this funding will assist renter households unable to pay rent and/or utilities due to loss of income from the pandemic.
The Hamilton County Commissioners selected the Hamilton County Trustees Association (HCTA) to oversee the grant with the funds being administered by the Westfield Washington Township (WWT) Trustee’s office.
The online application, available in 10 languages, is found at HCTAIndiana.com. A call center has been established for assistance and that number is (317) 618-3125. The website also provides a list of local partners throughout the county available to help residents with the application process. You can visit your local library or a partner site if you need internet access. Paper applications will also be available at partner sites.
Altman
“We are excited to start providing much needed assistance to members of our community who have been hit hard by COVID-19,” said Hamilton County Commissioner Christine Altman. “As we know, COVID-19 doesn’t discriminate. It has impacted all walks of life and Hamilton County is no exception.”
To be eligible for financial assistance from HC ERAP, you must be a renter in Hamilton County, at least one adult in your household must have experienced a loss of income due to COVID-19, and your household income must be at or below 80 percent of the area’s median income. The application has a short pre-qualification section to confirm eligibility before you fill out the full application.
Danielle Carey Tolan, Hamilton County Trustee Association President and Westfield Washington Township Trustee, will oversee and administer the program.
Tolan
“During this pandemic, Township offices have been flooded with struggling residents and it has been heartbreaking to hear about so many unfortunate situations,” Tolan said. “Now there’s a lifeline and we are excited to be able to bring some financial stability to our neighbors in need, as well as help landlords struggling with back-due rents. The program allows us to pay back rent or utilities from April 1, 2020. As part of the program, landlords will also need to register so we can pay them directly should the tenant’s application be accepted.”
Background
The Hamilton County Emergency Rental Assistance Program is included in the most recent stimulus package from the U.S. Department of Treasury. Six Indiana counties, including Hamilton County, were allocated funds in terms of grant dollars for COVID-19 relief assistance for rent and utilities. Specifically, Hamilton County received $10,120,511.40. These funds will be administered through Dec. 31, 2021 or until all funds have been distributed. For more information, visit HCTAIndiana.com.