Tulare County HHSA set aside $2.8 million in CARES Act funding for rent and utility assistance
TULARE COUNTY – Nearly one quarter of Tulare County’s workforce may be eligible for emergency rental and mortgage assistance for those who have lost income during the pandemic.
Earlier this month, Community Services Employment Training (CSET) announced it was offering rental and mortgage assistance to those directly impacted by COVID-19. The assistance will provide support to low- and moderate-income households that experienced an income reduction, became unemployed or affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on new unemployment claims over the average in a normal year, more than 75,000 people in Tulare County could be eligible for the assistance, according to the state’s Employment Development Department.
“CSET’s housing team is grateful for the opportunity to provide local residents with rental assistance. Our housing team goes above and beyond to ensure customers receive all essential resources to get back on their feet. During these challenging times, we are working diligently to ensure those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic are informed about the emergency funds that can help cover their rental or mortgage payment,” stated CSET’s Housing Director Maria Villa.
CSET’s Rental and Mortgage Assistance program is funded by the Tulare County Health and Human Services Agency’s CARES Act (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act) and EFSP (Emergency Food and Shelter Program). At its Sept. 1 meeting, HHSA set aside $2.8 million for rental and utility assistance funding as part of the county’s $48.9 million CARES Act package.
Those interested in applying must meet all applicable income eligibility verification requirements. Only one pre-application per household will be accepted and a verifiable hardship is required to receive assistance. Incomplete applications will not be processed. All prospective applicants must complete an eligibility questionnaire available only online at www.cset.org/housing.
CSET’s Housing Services department can assist Tulare County residents with additional services such as First Time Home Buyer Workshops, Foreclosure Counseling and Rental/Mortgage Assistance. To learn more about CSET’s Housing Services, visit www.cset.org/housing-services or call 559-741-4650.
Community Services Employment Training (CSET) inspires youth, families and communities to achieve self-reliance through innovative pathways and collaboration. Since 1976, CSET has been the Community Action Agency for Tulare County.
