YOUNGSTOWN — Catholic Charities Regional Agency has $1.5 million of federal CARES Act funding available to provide residential rental assistance and utility assistance for residential renters who qualify in Mahoning County.

The Mahoning County commissioners allocated the funds in February after Catholic Charities used $1 million of CARES Act funding for residential rental assistance last year.

Susan Burnett, program director for Catholic Charities Regional Agency, said there was a learning curve the first time Catholic Charities received the funding, but representatives have a better idea now of how to assist those in need.

Representatives also are able to suggest other programs that may assist people. The rules for how the money can be used are different than the first time, Burnett noted.

“The money has helped us do what we love to do — help people move forward in their lives,” Burnett said. “People are very grateful … It’s very rewarding and really needed.”

Rules for the program are:

l One or more individuals within the household has to have qualified for unemployment benefits or experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs or experienced other financial hardship — directly or indirectly — because of COVID-19;

l One or more individuals within a household must demonstrate a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability;

l The household must have a household income at or below 80 percent of the area median income.

Those wanting to apply should be prepared to provide copies of past-due account information and / or landlord-tenant information. To make an appointment for a consultation or for more information, call 330-744-3320.

erunyan@vindy.com