State College Offers COVID-19 Assistance Programs to Prevent Evictions

With a federal moratorium on evictions scheduled to end on June 30, State College Borough is reminding residents of assistance programs available for tenants and landlords.

“The Borough is committed to supporting and helping our community members and businesses that have been adversely impacted by the health and economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic,” a statement from the borough on Monday said.

The Center for Alternatives in Community Justice offers free landlord-tenant mediation services. A neutral, certified mediator will listen to the perspectives of both the landlord and tenant and all parties work together to identify possible solutions.

“Those that work best for everyone are chosen and put in writing,” according to the borough statement. “Successful mediations across Pennsylvania are preventing evictions that can damage a renter’s credit and housing history record.”

Mediation also can help to avoid costly litigation.

To schedule a mediation, contact CACJ at (814) 234-1059.

The borough also is continuing to provide direct grants to assist with mortgage, rent, and utility bill payments for those impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

To be eligible, residents must have a lease or mortgage in the borough, meet income guidelines, and have a total decrease in household income because of the pandemic.

Mortgage holders can receive up to $2,000 per month for up to three consecutive months for mortgage and utility payments. Renters can receive up to $1,200 per month toward rent and utilities for three consecutive months, which may be extended up to nine months for a limited number of eligible renters.

Payments are made directly to the mortgage lender, landlord/property manager or utility company.

Residents are not eligible if they were behind on rent or mortgage or were more than 30 days past due on utility bills on March 1, 2020; or if they receive subsidized housing from other sources.

Applications can be started by calling (814) 234-7165.

For more on the program and requirements, visit statecollegepa.us/710/COVID-19-Assistance-Programs.