Arizona launches new fund to assist homeowners impacted by pandemic

A new statewide fund is set to assist hundreds, if not thousands, of Arizona homeowners continuing to struggle financially because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Announced Nov. 1, the Homeowner Assistance Fund launched with $197 million in funding from the federal American Rescue Plan Act to help families behind on mortgage payments, HOA fees, utilities and other costs associated with homeownership during a financially fraught time for many. The program is being run by the Arizona Department of Housing.

“We want to make sure families stay in their homes and continue to have a roof over their heads,” said Gov. Doug Ducey in a prepared statement announcing the fund. “As Arizona emerges out of the pandemic and our economy grows, many hardworking individuals who fell on hard times are still trying to find their financial footing. TheADOH’s Homeowner Assistance Fund will help with mortgage payments and take care of other expenses.”