Daily Sitka Sentinel

BIHA Alerts Sitka to Rent, Utility Funds

By SHANNON HAUGLAND
Sentinel Staff Writer

Sitka residents with a household income under $71,280 may be eligible for up to a year of rent and utility assistance – but they have to hurry to apply.

Officials warned the deadline is 11:59 p.m. March 5, giving residents only a week more to submit and application.

“Our office staff is available and ready to assist,” said Cliff Richter, executive director of Baranof Island Housing Authority.

The housing and utility relief program is available through a partnership between BIHA and Alaska Housing Finance Corporation.

The application period opened in mid-February; those who qualify may receive up to 12 months of assistance to pay for their rent, utilities or both.

Richter said applications are coming in, but not at the rate he had expected. He said he knows there are many in Sitka who could use help with rent and utilities.

The process is a fairly simple one, and for those needing help filling out the application, the local BIHA office is taking appointments. It’s also reaching out to those who may have difficulty applying or are confused by the process. Richter said the partnership between the two organizations has allowed for a number of ways to learn about the program and apply from smartphones, tablets and computers.

“If any local help is needed, just call BIHA at 747-5088,” Richter said.

Baranof Island Housing Authority staff stand in the lobby of the Katlian Street office this morning. BIHA is helping administer a rent and utility assistance program. From left are Cliff Richter, Denise Salter, Joy Klushkan, Charlene Hoffay, Melanie Barker and Mary Ann Nells. (Sentinel Photo)

Staff can set up appointments and walk residents through the application process.

Richter said he knows the need is still there for those harmed financially by the pandemic, and the up to 12 months – with an additional three months’ help possible – should make a big difference to those experiencing setbacks. 

“As the pandemic continues, more help is needed for those struggling to pay their monthly rent,” Richter said.

While many BIHA programs are available only to the Native population, this joint program is available to all who meet the income qualifications and other criteria. 

“Sitkans of all walks of life,” Richter said. “Some people are reluctant to take government assistance, but we’re encouraging people to see if they qualify. ... It’s an economic stimulus (program) to help us get through the pandemic.”

He said the intent is to help families and individuals who are struggling.

The income figure of less than $71,280 is 80 percent of the median income for a household in Sitka, according to figures provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. A “household” includes those living alone.

Richter said one of the major requirements is an email address. For those who don’t have one, BIHA staff can help those applying to set one up; for those who don’t want one, staff can set up an alternative method for reaching individuals for followup.

BIHA and other regional housing authorities, the city of Anchorage, and AHFC received separate federal awards for a total of $200 million, AHFC and BIHA said in a news release.

“Our partnership cuts through the red tape, leverages our individual connections and resources, but ultimately brings peace of mind to those who have lost income and are seeking help,” said Bryan Butcher, AHFC executive director and CEO.

Eligibility requirements for spending the money are set by the U.S. Department of Treasury as a condition of the fiscal year 2021 Omnibus and COVID Relief and Response Act that was signed into law at the end of 2020. Mortgage relief is not an eligible expense but rent and utilities help are.

Richter noted that up to 12 months of help with rent, utilities or both may be provided, including past due balances. There is also the possibility of more help for another three months.

Payments will be directed to landlords, property managers and utilities, the news release said. Those who have received other relief are eligible to participate.

Those wanting help through BIHA may call 747-5088. 

The website alaskahousingrelief.org has additional information. Residents can call 833-440-0420 and text the word “relief.”