MANSFIELD — Richland County Job & Family Services and the Richland County Foundation are partnering on a COVID-19 relief program that could provide up to $100,000 for local residents.
Sharlene Neumann, executive director of Richland County Job & Family Services, discussed the partnership with county commissioners Tuesday morning.
The program will target three groups — senior citizens, childless couples and single individuals.
Neumann said the group working on the program — including JFS, RCF, United Way of Richland County and the North End Community Improvement Collaborative — identified those groups as perhaps not eligible for other forms of assistance.
Funds can be used for mortgages/rent, deposits, utilities, car payments and car insurance, Neumann said, adding there is a maximum of $250 per household available, assuming they meet federal poverty guidelines.
“If they have an electric bill for $100, we will pay that bill,” Neumann said, adding the money will be distributed through the Richland County Youth & Family Council.
Commissioners approved JFS spending $50,000 in federal social service block grant funds toward the effort. Neumann said the Richland County Foundation board has approved donating up to $50,000 for the program as part of its larger COVID-19 relief package.
Neumann said the program will operate until funds are exhausted or until the federal fiscal year ends Sept. 30.
Those wishing to apply can call YFC Executive Director Teresa Alt at 419-774-5442 on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. They can also send an email to Teresa.Alt@jfs.ohio.gov.
Neumann said applications for assistance can be completed online or over the phone and that no one will be asked to stop at the JFS offices.
