Bryan and his daughter Ali, who returns to Alaska from her first year of college.

Renewing Our Hope for the Future
By Bryan Butcher, CEO & Executive Director 

Spring is a time of renewal. This year, even more so — as breakup gives way to buds and blossoms, Alaskans are renewing their relationships with family and friends. I'm grateful to spend time with my mom in person again, and the whole family is looking forward to being together this summer.

Let's be real, though. For many Alaskans, times are still hard and the future is uncertain. Few things in life are more stressful than housing and financial instability — and the 25,000+ renters and 8,000+ landlords enrolled in Alaska Housing Rent Relief are experiencing both.

The good news is Alaska is far ahead of every other state in distributing rent relief. Over 25,000+ applications have passed ID and income verification, and every one has been assigned to our nonprofit community partners. Over 130 Alaskans work day and night, and on weekends, to process them — to date, over 12,000 applications have been approved with over $39 million in payments made to landlords and utilities.

Some Alaska homeowners have been struggling too, and I'm looking forward to announcing mortgage relief with an estimated $50 million in funds later this summer. You can be certain that when the federal government releases the money, we will once again clear away the red tape and work with our partners to accept applications and distribute the money quickly.

As we seek to diversify Alaska's economy and be more resilient, AHFC has programs like Step and Jumpstart to help our families become more independent and adaptable themselves. Alaska is entering a period of economic renewal, and employers will need a job-ready workforce. I'm thankful we're helping to develop that.

Spring brings a sense of hope for our kids, too. After a rough school year, they're excited to leave the virtual environment behind and renew friendships "IRL" as they say. Our Summer Camp and Activity Scholarship has helped over 1,000 children of AHFC families, and I'm happy to say it's back this year with up to $500 per youth available. 

Alaska truly leads the nation in being there for each other when it matters most. For every Alaskan who needs help — who needs HOPE — I see more who are ready to provide it. The courage and resilience of our employees, partners, families, and communities makes me proud to be an Alaskan.

Upcoming Mortgage Relief Program  

Are you a homeowner struggling to pay your mortgage? 

Later this summer, Alaska will receive an estimated $50 million in funds to assist homeowners. AHFC will announce details soon, including eligibility and the application process.

Youth Summer Camp & Activity Scholarship

This scholarship program makes it possible for young Alaskans to attend a summer camp, take part in an activity, or participate in a sport of their choosing. AHFC is celebrating our 10th anniversary offering this scholarship to public housing families, with awards of up to $500 per youth.

Looking for summer camp ideas? Check out the ADN 2021 Summer Camps Guide for options in Anchorage, Mat-Su, and the Kenai Peninsula!

Emergency Broadband Internet Assistance

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has launched a temporary program to help families and households struggling to afford internet service during the COVID-19 pandemic. This new benefit will connect eligible households to jobs, critical healthcare services, virtual classrooms, and more.

The Emergency Broadband Benefit provides a discount of up to $50 per month toward broadband service for eligible households and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands. 

Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers. The Emergency Broadband Benefit is limited to one monthly service discount and one device discount per household.

Featured Job: Asset Technician in Fairbanks

Looking for a great place to work? Know someone looking for a new opportunity? Duties include assisting with the management of public housing: helping site staff and residents, supervising day-to-day maintenance, coordinating with admissions staff, etc. Apply today or share with others!