MECKLENBURG COUNTY, N.C. — County and city leaders are looking to help more Mecklenburg County homeowners lighten the load amid the rising costs of living and home ownership.
"We are trying to explore and we look for solutions to try to offset some of that burden and costs," said Mark Jerrell, a county commissioner for district 3.
Jerrell told WCNC Charlotte that the HOMES Program was awarded $13 million in funding to lower the cost of annual homeownership, but only about a million dollars has been distributed, leaving millions more untouched.
"It's kind of shocking that it's so difficult to get the money out the door," said Jerrell.
Jerrell said its no question as to whether the need is there, but lies in how to effectively reach more households.
County leaders have tried spreading the word about the HOMES Program through more than 100 different organizations, over the radio, and through mailouts, but they say many folks are still skeptical.
"Money within this realm a lot of times, they just don't trust it, unfortunately," said Jerrell. "We're trying to really hit as many people as we can as people are experiencing very difficult times from an economic perspective."
The new deadline for the homes program has been extended to Dec. 15 and eligible homeowners may qualify for up to $660 in funding.
Jerrell said there’s no age requirement and your home does not have to be paid off.
"Reach out, let us help you because it doesn't do us any good to have this money rollover. We need to get it out the door."
Jerrell said the funds will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis until all of it is gone.
For more information on the HOMES Program, please visit www.mecknc.gov/4HOMES; email 4Homes@mecknc.gov; or call (980) 314-HOME (4663).
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