Rep. Manley Highlights COVID-19 Housing Relief Program

ROMEOVILLE, Ill. — With many families still facing the financial effects of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, state Rep. Natalie Manley, D-Joliet, is urging homeowners to apply for the Illinois Housing Development Authority’s mortgage relief program. The Illinois Emergency Homeowner Assistance Fund (ILHAF) provides up to $60,000 in mortgage assistance to eligible homeowners.

“Stable housing is crucial to the health and safety of our community and its residents, but the financial hardship caused by the COVID-19 pandemic makes it difficult for many families to make ends meet and keep a roof over their heads,” Manley said. “Fortunately, the ILHAF released a second round of funding to support Illinois residents in need of mortgage assistance. I  highly encourage anyone needing financial assistance to apply for ILHAF funding so they can remain safely in their homes.”

ILHAF offers up to $60,000 per household to homeowners who have experienced a financial hardship directly related to the COVID-19 pandemic that began, continued or worsened after Jan. 21, 2020. Homeowners with an income less than 150% of the Area Median Income, who own and occupy their property as their primary residents, or who are past due on their mortgage or property tax payments are also eligible to apply.

“ILHAF insulates Illinois families from further financial hardship, like mortgage delinquencies and foreclosures, so they can stay in their homes and continue to rebuild from the pandemic,” Manley said. “This program has already awarded millions of dollars to families in need. As we continue to deal with the pandemic and inflation, this aid could not come at a better time.”

The Illinois Housing Development Authority is hosting a series of informational webinars in both English and Spanish to answer questions about the application process. For more information about the program, webinars and applications, please visit https://www.illinoishousinghelp.org/ilhaf.