Pandemic Relief for Mvskoke Homeowners
Assisting Mvskoke Citizens Through Hardship: The Homeowners Assistance Fund (HAF)
Introduction
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Muscogee (Creek) Nation has implemented the Homeowners Assistance Fund (HAF) to aid Mvskoke citizens facing housing-related financial challenges. Funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), this initiative aims to alleviate burdens such as delinquent mortgage payments, overdue utilities, lapsed homeowners insurance, property taxes, and homeowner association fees.
Understanding the Program
Qualification Criteria
To qualify for HAF assistance, applicants must be Mvskoke citizens experiencing housing-related financial hardships due to the pandemic. Even if household bills are under a non-citizen’s name, applicants can still apply by establishing their relationship through appropriate documentation such as marriage licenses.
Delinquency Requirement
Applicants must already be in delinquency to apply, with mortgage payments or bills past due. The HAF does not cover prospective delinquencies. Specifically, for mortgage assistance, applicants need to be at least 30 days behind on payments. The program can also help with past-due property taxes from 2021 and 2022.
Eligibility Beyond Residency
Assistance is available to all citizen homeowners, irrespective of their residency. Even citizens residing outside the designated service area in eastern Oklahoma can apply, provided they submit the necessary documentation.
Application Process
Streamlined Procedure
The application process is facilitated through the MCN’s Camphouse Portal online. Under “housing applications,” applicants can access the required documents and submit their applications. Necessary paperwork establishing homeownership and delinquency, such as bills and notices, must be provided.
Thorough Processing
Once an application is submitted, the office allows up to 30 days for the necessary paperwork to be submitted. The verification process involves confirming payment amounts with relevant companies and ensuring payments go directly to vendors.
Timely Relief
Upon receiving all required documents, the processing time is expedited, with payments typically being issued within a matter of days. The program aims to have batches of payments sent out weekly, provided all documentation is in order.
Relief and Support
Case-by-Case Review
Applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis, with a maximum limit for assistance. Applicants can reapply until they reach this cap. The program’s caring agents are available to guide citizens through the process and provide support.
Significant Impact
The HAF program has already made a significant impact by assisting citizens in saving their homes from foreclosure and paying off overdue property taxes.
Conclusion
The Homeowners Assistance Fund (HAF) serves as a vital lifeline for Mvskoke citizens facing housing-related financial hardships exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic. With a streamlined application process and dedicated support from program agents, eligible homeowners can access timely relief to secure their homes. For more information and assistance, individuals can visit the official website or contact the provided phone number and email address.
