RACINE – Homeowners across the state needed a helping hand due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the numbers indicate the Wisconsin Help for Homeowners program has made a local impact.

Since Racine County Treasurer Jeff Latus announced the program in March, the Help for Homeowners program has provided much-needed relief for Racine County homeowners experiencing financial hardship due to COVID-19. Racine County taxpayers have received more than $350,000 in property tax assistance from the program, helping homeowners avoid foreclosure and achieve financial stability.

"COVID-19 has financially impacted thousands of Wisconsin families and many call Racine County home," said Latus. "The Wisconsin Help for Homeowners program has demonstrated its ability to provide much-needed financial resources to those families. I encourage residents who have experienced a COVID-19-related financial hardship since January 21, 2020, to contact Wisconsin Help for Homeowners to see if they qualify."

The Wisconsin Help for Homeowners program is administered locally by the Racine Kenosha Community Action Agency. The program distributes financial assistance derived from the American Rescue Plan Act to help Wisconsin residents with mortgage payments, property taxes, and utility bills (including internet), and provides financial counseling and legal services. Program funds are still available, and Racine County residents financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic are strongly encouraged to apply if they haven't already done so.

For information about the program and to access the application portal, visit the Wisconsin Help for Homeowners website at https://homeownerhelp.wi.gov. Resources are also available by contacting Wisconsin Help for Homeowners by phone at 1-855-246-6394.