MADISON, Wis. — Gov. Tony Evers on Thursday announced that more than 5,400 Wisconsin homeowners have received assistance from the Wisconsin Help for Homeowners program so far, surpassing $39 million in mortgage, utility and property tax payments statewide.

The federally funded program continues to provide up to $40,000 in financial help for homeowners, helping to prevent foreclosure because of pandemic-related financial burdens.

“Our Help for Homeowners program has helped thousands of Wisconsin homeowners avoid foreclosure in nearly every county in the state, helping prevent folks from having to choose between putting food on the table and keeping a roof over their heads during a difficult time,” Evers said in a statement. “I’m proud we’ve been able to help so many Wisconsinites make ends meet and want to remind folks across our state that this critical support is still available.”

WHH launched in March 2022 and is administered by the Wisconsin Department of Administration, in partnership with the Wisconsin Community Action Program Association and Take Root Wisconsin.

“Helping over 5,000 households stay safe in their homes is an exciting milestone for this much-needed program,” DOA Secretary Kathy Blumenfeld said in a statement. “We are grateful for Gov. Evers’ commitment to help hard-working families and for our statewide network of partners in administering this program to help Wisconsin homeowners avoid foreclosure and retain safe, stable housing.”

DOA has also partnered with the Wisconsin State Treasurer and local treasurers to assist homeowners with property tax arrearages. WHH and the federal Homeowner Assistance Fund are funded through the federal American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.

The program is open to Wisconsin homeowners who have experienced a financial hardship since Jan. 21, 2020, and meet program requirements, including income eligibility.

Additional information and applications are available at homeownerhelp.wi.gov.