If you have not already received monetary relief from Harris County to offset financial difficulties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, you may be eligible to receive assistance now via the Harris County COVID-19 Emergency Direct Assistance Fund. The following FAQ will address eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and the selection process.
How much money is available for financial relief to the residents of Harris County?
Harris County, in partnership with Catholic Charities of Galveston-Houston, is providing $40 million in relief. The funding is expected to help 33,333 families with one-time payments of up to $1,200 to be used for emergency expenses, such as housing, food, utilities, internet connectivity, transportation, childcare or healthcare.
Who is eligible to receive the funds?
Applicants must either have one household member enrolled in a public assistance program or have total household income that is less than 60% of the area median income as measured by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Applicants must also prove pandemic-related hardship by providing copies of, for example, unpaid bills.
How many households will receive the funds, and how are the households selected?
The funding is expected to help 33,333 families. Recipients will be selected using a random statistical model that ensures no bias. Unfortunately, not everyone who applies will receive funds.
When can eligible households apply for the relief?
The application period begins on November 2, when any qualified households that have not previously applied for relief can submit a request for financial assistance. Families can apply on their own without cooperation from a landlord or anyone else. The application period closes on November 6. APPLY NOW.
How will the randomly selected applications be processed, and when will funds be distributed?
Catholic Charities will receive the names, review all applications for eligibility, work with those applicants to get the proper documentation within a short time frame, and, finally, process payment for those who are approved. All applications will be reviewed and payment will be made by December 30.
How can I get more information and/or assistance in completing the online application?
Visit this FAQ page on the Catholic Charities website or call 832-990-1318 Monday through Saturday 9 a.m. – 8 p.m., to ask questions, request help in using the website, and voice any concerns.
What options do I have if I am not selected to receive funds?
Catholic Charities has assembled a list of resources for applicants who were not selected but who may still need assistance.
How can I spread the word about this program to those in need?
Download the Fact Sheets (available in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, and Chinese) available on the Catholic Charities website, and share them with Harris County residents who could benefit from this program.
