Geminus Corporation to Administer $13 Million in Funds to Assist Renters in Lake County

March 2021

Merrillville, IN - Geminus Corporation, a member of the Regional Care Group, was recently awarded the grant administration contract by the Lake County Redevelopment Commission for the U.S. Treasury Emergency Rental Assistance program to administer $13 million in funds to help residents of Lake County, specifically those disrupted by COVID-19, to pay for rent and utilities.

Geminus will work with the County, township trustees, and local nonprofits, including Lake Area United Way, Northwest Indiana Community Action, Catholic Charities, Legacy Foundation, The Salvation Army, and other community outreach programs to channel the funds. The local agencies will also help Lake County applicants with processing their applications.

“Without the collaboration of the County and our local partners, it would have been extraordinarily difficult for any individual organization to implement this relief program, especially in such a short period of time. This multi-organizational approach will ensure access to funding throughout the County for the people who need the most help,” says Bill Trowbridge, CEO of Regional Care Group.

The economic crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has created a continuing need for rental and utility assistance throughout the State of Indiana. The program is designed to decrease evictions, increase housing stability, and prevent homelessness by helping tenants whose income has been negatively impacted by COVID-19 with rent and utility payments.

“These are our neighbors who need this support, many who have never asked for financial aid before. The need is simply not going away and these funds will provide relief to families and individuals so they can make it through this crisis,” says Trowbridge.

Eligible tenants may receive up to 12 months of rental assistance, including past due balances accrued after April 1, 2020. Utility assistance may also be provided to qualifying applicants for past due utilities and home energy expenses. If you are having trouble paying your rent, you should speak to your landlord and let them know you intend to apply. The application for assistance will be made available this year in early spring.

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About Geminus Corporation

Geminus Corporation, a member of the Regional Care Group, partners with community-based health care providers, social service organizations, and early childhood education programs to help increase Hoosiers' access to high-quality care. As Northern Indiana’s largest nonprofit administrative service organization, Geminus also provides support services for health care nonprofits and human service organizations.