State Housing Agency Steps In to Aid 2020 Labor Day Wildfire Survivors in Replacing Homes

Salem, Oregon – In a significant development, Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) is set to launch the Homeowner Assistance and Reconstruction Program (HARP), marking the first direct assistance program available to survivors of the 2020 Labor Day disaster. This vital initiative is part of ReOregon, a comprehensive program financed by a substantial $422 million Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

HARP is designed to provide much-needed support to low- and moderate-income homeowners who are still grappling with the daunting task of repairing, rebuilding, or replacing their homes in the aftermath of the 2020 Labor Day disaster. For those who have already undertaken repairs or reconstruction, the program also holds the promise of potential reimbursement in a later phase, contingent on the availability of funds.

Andrea Bell, the Director of OHCS, emphasized the agency’s unwavering commitment to facilitating the recovery, reconstruction, and revitalization of affected communities. She stated, “OHCS remains committed to action towards recovering, rebuilding, and revitalizing our communities. As trusted voices in their communities, our partners have a pulse on the needs of our many neighbors and friends who are still working to recover.”

The application process for HARP is set to commence by the end of March 2024. To ensure the successful launch of this vital program, OHCS has forged strategic partnerships with community-based organizations, leveraging their local presence and insights into the needs of the affected residents.

HARP’s Scope and Objectives:

1. Direct Assistance to Labor Day Disaster Survivors: HARP is a groundbreaking initiative that will directly assist survivors of the 2020 Labor Day disaster. It addresses the pressing housing needs of those who are still confronting the challenges of repairing, rebuilding, or replacing their homes in the wake of the catastrophe.
2. Low- and Moderate-Income Homeowners: The program targets low- and moderate-income homeowners who often face greater hurdles in the aftermath of disasters. By extending support to this demographic, HARP aims to alleviate the financial burdens associated with home repairs and reconstruction.
3. Potential Reimbursement: HARP acknowledges the efforts of homeowners who have already completed repairs or rebuilding by offering the possibility of reimbursement in a future phase. This forward-thinking approach ensures that those who have taken proactive steps to restore their homes are not left without assistance.
4. Comprehensive Community Revitalization: OHCS’s commitment to community revitalization is at the heart of HARP. By empowering homeowners to rebuild their lives and homes, the program contributes to the broader goal of revitalizing and strengthening affected communities.
5. Collaborative Approach: OHCS recognizes the importance of collaboration and has partnered with community-based organizations to facilitate the rollout of HARP. These organizations, deeply rooted in the affected areas, will play a crucial role in ensuring that assistance reaches those in need.

As the launch of HARP approaches, Oregon Housing and Community Services is poised to make a meaningful impact on the lives of survivors still grappling with the aftermath of the 2020 Labor Day disaster. Through this program, the agency not only provides vital financial support but also offers a ray of hope and the prospect of rebuilding for those who have endured immense challenges.