In response to the rising number of utility shut-off notices among homeowners, the Bucks County Water and Sewer Authority recently highlighted the availability of financial aid through the Pennsylvania Homeowner Assistance Fund (PAHAF).
The program was created to lift some of the financial burden on eligible homeowners by covering mortgage and housing-related expenses, including utility bills.
Benjamin Jones, CEO of the Bucks County Water and Sewer Authority, noted the importance of the PAHAF in providing necessary support for households facing unexpected financial challenges.
“Customers can face unplanned financial challenges at any time,” said Jones. “The PAHAF can provide qualifying households with support to help navigate financial emergencies. Our staff is ready and happy to assist our customers with supportive resources that are available through our state and federal partners.”
Initially established to counteract the economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, PAHAF had paused the acceptance of new applications in February 2023 to manage a backlog. However, the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA), which oversees the program, has announced that new applications will be accepted once more.
The program will continue until the designated funds are fully allocated.
To date, PAHAF has awarded over $50,000 in grants to customers of the Bucks County Water and Sewer Authority, which serves customers across the area. The program isn’t limited to only Bucks County Water and Sewer Authority customers.
According to officials, the funds are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, prioritizing homeowners who are at risk of immediate adverse actions like foreclosure, sheriff sale, or receiving a utility shut-off notice. While submitting an application does not guarantee receipt of funds, it is a crucial step for homeowners seeking assistance.
Homeowners interested in applying for the PAHAF grants or seeking more information on eligibility and application procedures are encouraged to visit the official website at pahaf.org.
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