Quarter Of A Million Dollars In Grant Money Goes To Blaine County Charitable For Emergency Housing Help

The Blaine County, Idaho Charitable Fund recently became the recipient of a $250,000 Community Development Block Grant under the provisions of the CARES Act. This substantial sum is earmarked to assist in the provision of emergency housing for those hit hardest by the ongoing pandemic.

These funds, although hugely beneficial, come with a set of strict regulations attached. They are solely designated for households struggling due to financial difficulties brought on by COVID-19. Furthermore, the funds must be allocated in monthly distributions before the end of May. It is requisite that the grant recipients be either documented workers or bona fide U.S. citizens.

Mary Fauth, who holds the executive director position at the Blaine County Charitable Fund, voiced her concerns about these stipulations. She remarked, “My opinion is that it will be difficult to spend very much of it in a short amount of time with the restrictions.”

Previously, the Charitable Fund had been the recipient of $263,600 in funds from diverse sources. They received $30,000 from the American Rescue Plan Act, $45,000 was generously donated by the city of Ketchum, and an impressive sum of $188,600 was contributed by private donors. This funding provided essential relief for 95 individuals—including 37 children—who were placed in emergency hotel accommodation, Fauth stated. This money did not carry the same documentation or citizenship prerequisites as the CARES Act Grant.

To qualify for the CARES Act funding, a family’s income must be at or below 80% of the median household income. The rental assistance provided will last for a maximum duration of three months (March, April, and May). Participating families are required to contribute at least 30% of their income towards rent.

The maximum monthly rent paid by CARES funding will be determined by Housing and Urban Development rates. These rates allow a maximum payment of $741 for a studio apartment, $848 for a one-bedroom apartment, $1,116 for a two-bedroom apartment, and $1,433 for a three-bedroom apartment.

For further information or inquiries, please visit the official website at blainecf.org or get in touch by phone at 208-244-5205.