By SHANNON HAUGLAND
Sentinel Staff Writer
Sitka Tribe of Alaska tribal citizens experiencing financial hardship due to the COVID pandemic may apply for up to $700 per household to assist with housing-related costs, STA announced today.
“STA Tribal Council will make citizens experiencing financial hardships due to COVID-19 a priority for the use of this funding,” an STA news release said. “The funding, if awarded, will assist with housing costs, including mortgage payments, rent, lot rental (for mobile homes), heating, utilities, internet, or boat moorage (for liveaboards).”
The program allows citizens to apply one payment to one vendor, for up to $700 per household, STA said.
STA received American Rescue Plan Act funds in 2021 from the U.S. Department of Treasury with the agency’s goal “to help turn the tide on the COVID-19 pandemic and lay the foundation for a strong and equitable recovery.”
“Our tribal council has been very supportive of using the Tribe’s ARPA funding to help our citizens address financial hardships and meet basic needs,” STA General Manager Lisa Gassman added today.
Applications will be accepted until November 30, 2024, or until all available funds have been committed, whichever comes first. STA’s enrollment is 4,535 people, not all of whom live in Sitka, and all are eligible to apply for this program, STA said.
The payments will be made to the vendor, such as the city of Sitka, heating fuel companies, landlords, banks (for mortgage payments), and internet providers.
Applications are available on the STA website, under “2021 ARPA Household Assistance” and must be submitted online. A copy of a bill documenting eligible costs must be submitted with the application.
Those needing more information or help with the application may contact Harper Glazer at harper.glazer@sitkatribe-nsn.gov or by calling (907) 747-7293. Those needing assistance with Tribal Citizen enrollment or looking up enrollment numbers may contact Vera Gibson, vera.gibson@sitkatribe-nsn.gov, 907-747-7317.
