The St Vincent de Paul organization has made us aware of the following information. If you know of anyone that might benefit, please share this information with them.

Illinois now has several grant programs to help with rent and mortgage payments.  These have short application periods: Now through August 21st for rental assistance, and August 24th-September 4th for people who need help with their mortgage payments.  

The emergency rental assistance program is only taking applications through August 21st.  Tenants should go on line at https://era.ihda.org/ to apply or call 888-252-1119. Landlords also have to fill out part of the application. Grants are for $5000.00 and can only be used for rent. Section 8 tenants are not eligible. Applicants will be selected randomly to receive a grant. 

IF YOU KNOW ANYONE WHO NEEDS RENT HELP, PLEASE PASS THIS INFO ON TO THEM.  Illinois Housing Department has asked us to spread the word as much as possible.  

Mortgage assistance information can be found at http://ema.ihda.org/. Applications open on August 24th at 9am Central Time.

LIHEAP is helping with utilities.  Applicants should call 1-833-711-0374 or go online to helpillinoisfamilies.com to apply. Eligibility is based on income.  If you know anyone who needs help, please pass this information along.