Manley Highlights Emergency Assistance for Renters and Homeowners

ROMEOVILLE, Ill. – As many residents continue to face financial hardship due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, state Rep. Natalie Manley, D-Joliet, is highlighting two new opportunities for rental and mortgage payment assistance.

“Families should not have to worry about potentially losing their home due to circumstances completely out of their control, like being laid off and losing their income due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Manley. “To help those in need during this difficult time the Illinois Housing Development Authority is offering assistance to help residents afford to remain in their homes.”

Manley is highlighting two emergency payment assistance opportunities available through the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA). Tenants who have lost income due to the COVID-19 pandemic may be eligible for a $5000 grant paid directly to their landlord through Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA). To apply or for more eligibility information, visit era.ihda.org. Homeowners unable to pay their mortgage may be eligible for Emergency Mortgage Assistance (EMA) and could receive grants of up to $15,000 to be paid directly to their mortgage servicer. Visit ema.ihda.org for eligibility information or to apply. Applications for ERA and EMA will be accepted through Aug. 24, and only one application per household is permitted.

“Families should not have to fear losing their housing in the middle of a pandemic, especially while our state continues to navigate the COVID-19 crisis and we still face so much uncertainty,” said Manley. “I encourage renters and homeowners that have experienced a loss in income and need assistance to consider applying for these emergency relief opportunities.”