Nearly 700 apply for mortgage assistance

The following is from a news release from the Office of the Governor of Guam:

The Guam Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) has received over 650 pre-applications from homeowners seeking financial assistance in the first five days since opening on January 31, 2022. The Leon Guerrero-Tenorio Administration implemented the HAF Program, which is similar to the Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) Program, to provide relief to struggling households facing financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“These robust housing relief programs reflect the efforts of staff who work tirelessly to identify and secure means to protect distressed families in our community facing eviction, foreclosure, or utility service disconnection,” said Governor Lou Leon Guerrero. “The HAF and ERA programs are a powerful portfolio of measures that help our people stay in their homes. These programs empower families to achieve the best outcome possible for their family and housing situation.”

“Working families have faced unprecedented burdens over the last two years,” said Lt. Governor Josh Tenorio. “If you are struggling to pay your mortgage or other homeowner obligations, the Guam HAF program can help you get back on your feet. We encourage all eligible homeowners to apply for assistance. If you are unsure if you’re eligible, visit doa.guam.gov for more information or call 671-638-3814 to be put in touch with staff who will help in guiding you through the process and understanding the options available to you and your family.”

The rental and housing relief programs are implemented by the Leon Guerrero-Tenorio Administration and administered by the Department of Administration (DOA). The ERA Program has obligated $10.2 million in rental relief to 2,500 households to date. HAF, the island’s newest housing assistance program, opened its doors on January 31, 2022, and to date has received over 650 pre-applications from homeowners seeking financial aid. Eligible homeowners may qualify for up to $15,000 from HAF. An initial batch of HAF relief assistance is anticipated to be paid by the end of February 2022 with further batch payments forthcoming.

Homeowners and renters can apply online at doa.guam.gov or visit the ERA and HAF offices on the 2nd floor of the ITC building in Tamuning from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday to Friday.  HAF pre-applications will be accepted until February 11, 2022. For more information, contact the ERA Program at 671-638-4518/4519 and HAF at 671-638-3814, or visit doa.guam.gov.