Program designed to assist

St. Joseph County treasurer Judith Ratering has included the county in a state program designed to assist homeowners who have fallen behind on their property taxes.

“Help for Hardest Hit; Step Forward, Michigan” is a state initiative to assist homeowners who have endured a financial hardship and are unable to catch up on their property taxes.

Discussing the program last week before the county board of commissioners, Ratering said if a prospective recipient is determined eligible, a one-time payment will be sent directly to the county treasurer to pay delinquent taxes.

Ratering and her participating peers across the state are partnering with the Michigan Housing Development Authority to help Michigan’s hardest hit avoid foreclosure and remain in their home. The program is supported through $498 million in federal funds.

Homeowners may apply for assistance through the website stepforwardmichigan.org.