The CARES Act: Federal Housing Support for Washingtonians During the Coronavirus Pandemic

Led by efforts from U.S. Senator Patty Murray, Congress recently passed the bipartisan Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to help support workers, families, businesses, communities and more struggling due to the coronavirus pandemic and response. The CARES Act was signed into law on March 27, 2020, and includes $12 billion in federal funds to support families facing housing insecurity and people experiencing homelessness. In Washington state, the new funding will provide:

🔘 nearly $40 million in Emergency Solutions Grants

🔘 an estimated $35.5 million in Community Development Block Grants to help communities rapidly respond to the economic and housing impacts of the coronavirus pandemic

🔘 Approximately $11.1 million in additional funds for the LIHEAP program, a portion of which will go to families needing temporary rental assistance

These new investments will provide rental assistance to help families avoid eviction, as well as address impacts caused by loss of employment, child care, or other unforeseen circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic, and support community efforts to address economic concerns. More information about Washington state’s Emergency Solutions Grants available HERE.

Additionally, for homeowners with federally-backed mortgages and properties that receive federal subsidies, the CARES Act also provides:
✅ a 12 month forbearance on mortgage payments
✅ a 60-day moratorium on foreclosures
✅ a 120-day moratorium on evictions and late fees for renters

Senator Murray is committed to building on the steps taken in the CARES Act to strengthen investments in vital federal housing programs that help ensure no one is on the streets and children, families and communities across Washington state have access to a safe and secure home to weather this public health emergency and slow the spread of the virus.

Photo credit: King County Housing Authority