Jefferson City Area Board of Realtors offers disaster financial assistance

This is the south facing side of the building at 616 E. Capitol Ave. This and other structures on East Capitol Avenue suffered minor to extensive damage during the May 22 tornado and to aid in the rebuilding, the HCJ will offer money that was originally raised to be used in restoration of the blighted buildings in the area.
This is the south facing side of the building at 616 E. Capitol Ave. This and other structures on East Capitol Avenue suffered minor to extensive damage during the May 22 tornado and to aid in the rebuilding, the HCJ will offer money that was originally raised to be used in restoration of the blighted buildings in the area.

In response to tornado and flooding damage, a local group is offering some financial relief.

The Jefferson City Area Board of Realtors has set up a Realtor Relief Fund for Housing Assistance, available for residents of Jefferson City whose homes were damaged or destroyed by the May 22 tornado or recent flooding.

Stephanie Biggs, president of the board, said they wanted to make sure people were able to get into new housing quickly after the tornado.

"We want to make sure everyone always has a roof over their head," Biggs said.

Biggs called Missouri Realtors, who recommended the National Association of Realtors Relief Foundation.

The fund was originally set up in the hours following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, and raised more than $8.4 million for families of the victims, according to the foundation's website. Since then, the fund has raised more than $25 million for victims of natural disasters.

In Jefferson City, the relief fund offers up to $1,000 in housing assistance per household. Funds actually given will be based on need.

The board also put together a list of available rentals for those seeking housing, which can be found, along with the application for funds, on the board's website, jcabor.com.

The funds are available to help with monthly mortgage or rental expenses for primary residences which were damaged by either the tornado or flooding.

To apply, residents must provide proof of residency like a driver's license; a copy of a mortgage statement, mortgage payment coupon or lease agreement of the damaged home; photos of the damaged home, an insurance estimate or a copy of claims from an insurance adjuster; and a copy of a lease for a new residence for delivery of the check.

The application deadline is July 31, and Biggs said there are still funds available.

"There's still help to be given," Biggs said.

A committee will meet weekly to approve applications. So far they have met twice. At the first meeting they had five applications. At the second, they had around 30. Biggs said around 85 percent were approved.

Biggs pointed out that those living in housing under Section 8 assistance will not be eligible.

The board has also set up a partnership with ABLE Learning Center, which will provide assistance for anyone who may need help filling out an application.

Checks given out will be made jointly payable to the applicant and their mortgage lender or landlord to ensure proper use.

To fill out an application, visit jcabor.com, or go to the Jefferson City Area Board of Realtors office at 1906 Bubba Lane. Questions can be emailed to [email protected].