COVID Relief Fund Expanded to Include Rent and Mortgage Assistance
The Gainesville City Commission approved an expansion of the Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF) assistance program Thursday to include rent and mortgage assistance for neighbors negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The commission also approved an increase in individual award amounts from $1,250 to an amount based on financial need.
Previous applicants who were already approved for utility assistance only need to submit a copy of their current mortgage statements for additional aid under the program. Renters are required to submit a letter from their landlords noting any past due or currently due rent. Assistance through the program is paid directly to the utility provider, mortgage company or property owner on behalf of the applicant.
The deadline to apply for financial assistance is Tuesday, Dec. 15. An online application is available on our website. Paper copies of the application form may be requested by emailing utilityassistance@cityofgainesville.org. Application assistance is available by calling 211.
The CRF assistance program originally launched in September 2020 to provide temporary financial assistance to Gainesville neighbors in extremely low-, very low- and low-to-moderate-income households through utility payments for energy, water, cable, phone (landline and cell) and/or internet services. Program eligibility is determined based on proof of income and lost wages as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
As required by the State of Florida, funds must be expended by Dec. 30. CRF assistance is authorized through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Securities (CARES) Act.
For more information, call 352-393-8617.