LAKEPORT – A second information meeting describing two government programs that can help Lake County residents with financial assistance is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. on July 28 in Lakeport at St. Mary Immaculate Church, 801 N. Main St.

The programs are administered by Catholic Charities Lake County programs, and are part of the federal government stimulus bills to help people who live in Lake County and pay rent.

The programs cannot help people who own their homes. The programs can assist qualified residents who are experiencing hardship due to the current economy and/or a sudden loss of income.

As a result of a similar meeting in June, 25 local families are receiving assistance.

The July meeting will help explain who is most likely to qualify and how the application process works.

The programs can help people who are in jeopardy of losing their current rental housing; need money to catch up on late rent payments; are at risk of homelessness or who are homeless and need help to reestablish housing; and need help in paying past due utility bills.

Mortgage assistance of any kind is not covered.

To qualify, residents must meet federal income guidelines, as well as requirements such as documentation of payments to landlords or utilities companies, and proof of legal residency.

All information and documentation is verified during the review process.

The programs are funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act 2009/ Homeless Prevention and Rapid-Re-housing Program, and the Federal Emergency Shelter Grant for Lake County is funded by U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), via the California Department of Housing & Community Development.

Due to limited space, reservations are required. Call 707-987-8139.