Homeowners who are behind on their mortgage or property tax payments due to COVID-19 can apply for housing assistance grants through the Illinois Homeowner Assistance Fund.
The Illinois Housing Development Authority is accepting applications for grants of up to $30,000. Funded by American Rescue Plan Act dollars, the grants can be used to eliminate or reduce overdue mortgage and property tax payments.
Applications will be considered based on degree of need, household income and other criteria; the deadline to apply is May 31.
“As we continue to recover from the pandemic, many households are facing overdue mortgage payments, which can lead to foreclosure, housing insecurity and displacement,” state Rep. Sam Yingling, D-Grayslake, said in a statement. These grants “will help those at the greatest risk of foreclosure receive the aid they need to keep their homes.”
For more information on how to apply and to view an online webinar detailing the application process, visit https://www.illinoishousinghelp.org/ilhaf. Homeowners can also call (866) 454-3571.
Homeowners can also call the West Cook Homeownership Center at (773) 887-5187 or connect with The Journey Forward (flyer here) at (708) 730-4199 or by email at pamela.gilbert@thejourney-forward.org. Webinars also are being held; check the schedule here).