ETCOG to Host Community Meetings Offering Housing Assistance Opportunities Available to Panola and Rusk County Tornado Victims
East Texas Council of Governments • June 24, 2021
Attend an upcoming community meeting on July 1 or July 6
The East Texas Council of Governments
(ETCOG) will host community meetings for residents affected by the March 2021 tornadoes in Panola and Rusk counties to offer assistance through its HOME Disaster Relief Program. Through the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA), ETCOG assists qualified individuals impacted by storms and other disasters in East Texas. The community meetings will be held on the following dates:
Panola County Meet & Greet
Carthage Civic Center
July 1, 2021 | 12:00 p.m. & 6:00 p.m.
Rusk County Meet & Greet
Mt. Enterprise Community Center
July 6, 2021 | 12:00 p.m. & 6:00 p.m.
"We were saddened to learn of the damage and loss of homes as a result of the recent tornadoes in East Texas," said ETCOG's Director of Aging and Housing Programs, Bettye Mitchell. "The East Texas Council of Governments' HOME program and the Area Agency on Aging can possibly be of assistance. We encourage citizens who have lost their homes and or received significant damage to attend scheduled meetings in your area. Our hearts are with you during these difficult times."
The HOME Disaster Relief Program allows ETCOG to support the rebuilding or repairing of eligible storm victims' homes in the affected area. Average costs to rebuild single-family homes are from $100,000 to $110,000, depending on the size of the family. Interested applicants will be required to meet the HOME Disaster Relief Program standards set forth by the TDHCA. Applicants must also meet federal rules and standards set by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). In addition, eligible clients must have experienced property damage from the tornado, have a clear title on their home with no liens, and not have received FEMA assistance.
We encourage individuals looking to seek assistance to attend an upcoming community meeting or contact 903-218-6565 or visit www.etcog.org/housing.
Throughout May, the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA) will join organizations nationwide in celebrating Older Americans Month (OAM). This month-long observance honors the contributions of seniors in our communities. To mark the occasion, AAA will host and collaborate with local organizations for four special celebration events across East Texas, held at senior centers and community hubs. These events will highlight the importance of connection and the role strong relationships play in maintaining a vibrant, healthy senior population. OAM is a national initiative led by the Administration for Community Living. This year’s theme, “Flip the Script on Aging,” challenges outdated perceptions and encourages a fresh perspective on aging. It promotes a shift in how society talks about, understands, and supports older adults, empowering communities to embrace aging in a more positive and inclusive way. Join Us for These Community Celebrations! The following OAM events are open to the public and will feature food, entertainment, door prizes, and valuable information about services available to East Texas seniors: 📅 May 7 – Henderson Community Building, 302 Fair Park, Henderson | 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM 📅 May 15 – First United Methodist Church, 225 Lovers Ln, Athens | 9:30 AM - 2:00 PM 📅 May 16 – Jefferson Senior Center, 111 W. Broadway, Jefferson | 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM 📅 May 21 – Harrison County Agrilife Extension Office, 2005 Warren Drive, Marshall | 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM The AAA advocates for seniors and provides essential services, including benefits counseling, case management, health education, nutrition programs, referrals, and Ombudsman support for those in assisted living. These services promote independence and dignity, helping seniors remain in their communities. For event inquiries, call (903) 218-6500.
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