This grant from the GiveWell Community Foundation will go far in reducing displacement of Lakeland’s growing population of struggling veterans.
Lakeland, FL (PRWEB) August 29, 2014
Lakeland’s veteran support nonprofit organization, Clark’s House, has partnered with the GiveWell Community Foundation to provide mortgage assistance to Polk County veterans struggling with financial burdens.
The Veterans Housing First Initiative allows veterans currently in the process of foreclosure to remain in their home or prevents foreclosure altogether by making payments to lenders.
Founded in 2008, Clark’s House has championed a number of assistance programs to aid Polk County’s homeless veteran population.
“We are extremely excited to launch the Veterans Housing First Initiative in Polk County,” said Clark’s House Executive Director, Cynthania Clark. “This grant from the GiveWell Community Foundation will go far in reducing displacement of Lakeland’s growing population of struggling veterans.”
Using the funds allotted, Clark’s House has the potential to reach 38 Polk County veterans with a maximum contribution of $1,000 each. Currently, there are no programs that assist veterans with mortgage payments and Clark’s House is eager to fulfill that need.
“GiveWell Community Foundation is happy to support efforts to assist veterans,” said president and CEO of GiveWell Community Foundation, Terry Simmers.
Eligible applicants for the Veterans Housing First Initiative must meet income requirements and cannot be more than $1,000 behind schedule on their mortgage payments. Applicants must provide a DD-214, current mortgage statement, Social Security numbers for all family members residing in the home and proof of income for all residents ages 18 and up. Mortgage lenders must be local and candidates are required to provide documentation on why Clark’s House services are requested and necessary.
Funds are distributed as a onetime payment and once Clark’s House brings the account current, potential applicants must show they are able to maintain the account in good standing. Interested applicants should contact Cynthania Clark in Lakeland at 863-940-9977 or in Winter Haven at 863-875-4868. A maximum of five mortgages will be paid each month and distribution of funds is on a first come, first served basis. For more information about Clark’s House, please visit ClarksHouse.org.
About Clark’s House
Clark’s House was founded in April 2008, as a private, not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization to enhance the educational, physical, mental, social and community growth of low income veterans challenged with substance abuse, HIV/AIDS and homelessness. For more information, call 863-940-9977 or visit ClarksHouse.org.
About GiveWell Community Foundation
GiveWell Community Foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity serving the greater Polk County, Florida area providing impactful giving in our community. Granting $9.95 million in the 2013-2014 fiscal year and $108 million since inception, charitable funds are established by individuals, families, corporations, private foundations, organizations and municipalities serving a wide variety of charitable services. For more information, visit GiveCF.org.