Avesta Housing’s HomeOwnership Center (HOC) has been approved for a grant of more than $80,000 from NeighborWorks America, a congressionally chartered nonprofit organization that creates opportunities for people to live in affordable homes, improve their lives, and strengthen their communities. The grant will help HOC assist Maine renters and homeowners stay in their homes in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has put a great strain on personal finances.
The grant is part of NeighborWorks’ Housing Stability Counseling Program and is made available under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. The competition for the grant monies was extremely highNeighborWorks received requests totaling more than $348 million, which was more than four times the amount of funding available.
Totaling $82,240, the grant is among the largest ever received from NeighborWorks by Avesta’s HOC. The funds are greatly needed to help Maine residents cope with financial uncertainty brought on by the pandemic’s effect on the labor market coupled by escalating home prices, rent, and the cost of everyday household necessities.
“We are so excited to be recipients of this grant. Participating in the Housing Stability Program gives us the resources to help our most vulnerable clients that are facing eviction or foreclosure,” said HOC Director Nicole DiGeronimo. “The COVID-19 pandemic put a strain on Mainers who were already susceptible to financial instability and at a higher risk for losing their homes. Having the funding to support these clients is essential so that we may provide counseling and be that trusted resource to those who are seeking assistance in stabilizing their housing.”
Avesta’s HOC is a HUD-certified housing counseling agency. It provides counseling services for renters aspiring to become homeowners or who are struggling to maintain financial stability, homeowners at risk of losing their homes due to foreclosure or who are seeking expert advice on maintaining and improving their homes, and any community member who needs a plan for their personal financial goals.
For more information about the Avesta Housing HomeOwnership Center or to inquire about services, visit: www.AvestaHOC.org
