Washington, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has rolled out a comprehensive disaster assistance program for Texas residents affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding that began on April 26, 2024. This federal aid aims to support recovery efforts across the state, particularly in Harris, Liberty, Montgomery, Polk, San Jacinto, Trinity, and Walker counties, following President Biden’s major disaster declaration.

Key Measures of HUD’s Disaster Assistance Program:

1. Foreclosure Moratoriums: HUD is enforcing a 90-day moratorium on foreclosures for mortgages insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), including loans to Native American borrowers under the Section 184 Indian Home Loan Guarantee program. This extension also applies to Home Equity Conversion Mortgages.

2. Mortgage Insurance Availability: Through HUD’s Section 203(h) program, disaster victims can access FHA insurance for 100% financing, including closing costs, for homes that need reconstruction or replacement.

3. Rehabilitation Financing: HUD's Section 203(k) loan program allows individuals to finance the purchase or refinance of a house along with its repair, or rehabilitate their existing homes.

4. Housing Provider Information Sharing: HUD will collaborate with FEMA and state agencies to share information on available housing units and connect them with experts on HUD programs.

5. Community Planning and Development Flexibility: Grantees of various HUD programs, such as CDBG, HOPWA, and ESG, can apply for administrative flexibility to better respond to natural disasters.

6. Public Housing Agency Waivers: Public Housing Agencies can request waivers for disaster relief and recovery, following HUD’s expedited process for regulatory flexibilities.

7. Tribal Flexibility: Tribes and Tribally Designated Housing Entities can apply for regulatory waivers to aid disaster recovery efforts.

8. Housing Counseling: HUD-approved housing counseling agencies are ready to assist disaster-impacted individuals, providing resources and guidance for recovery. Assistance is available in over 200 languages through HUD’s telephone look-up tool.

9. Addressing Housing Discrimination: HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity is on hand to help those facing housing discrimination post-disaster. Individuals can file complaints with HUD if they believe their rights have been violated.

For more information on HUD’s disaster relief programs or to seek assistance, homeowners can contact the FHA Resource Center at 1-800-304-9320 or visit the FHA Disaster Relief site. This proactive approach underscores HUD's commitment to aiding Texas communities in their recovery and rebuilding efforts, ensuring they receive the support and resources needed to overcome these natural disasters.