MOCA Has Grant Money Available

The impact of the pandemic is still being felt by people across the area, with the increased cost of food, fuel, and child care. There were a significant number of individuals who found themselves being off work because of temporary closures and those whose hours were cut, putting some at risk of homelessness because of an inability to pay rent or utilities. The SAFHR Grant program is still available for people who need help catching up. Donna Owen with Missouri Ozarks Community Action

To date, more than $155-thousand-dollars has been approved for applicants in the MOCA service area, and their applications are still being accepted. The SAFHR Grant can help certain applicants through payment of back rent and forward rent if needed. Owen said the renter and the landlord are also involved in the process.

There are specific income guidelines; for a single individual in Laclede County, the income qualification is $31-thousand-850-dollars annual income, which is 80 percent of the median income for the county, and Owen said that amount would vary from county to county. Specialists at MOCA can also assist those who need help filling out the application. For additional information, contact Missouri Ozarks Community Action at 573-765-3263.