As deadline approaches, majority of Weaver Relief Fund remains unclaimed

The deadline to apply for reimbursement for expenses related to the Winston Weaver Company fire is this Thursday, even though a majority of allotted funding is still available. 

Back in February, the city set aside $1 million to reimburse low-income residents who were forced to evacuate during the fire. About 70% of it remains unclaimed, according to the latest financial report received by city officials. 

North Ward nonprofit Experiments in Self-Reliance was selected to administer the program. The group held one application fair in March. A round of informational postcards on the program was sent out around the same time. It's unclear what other outreach efforts have taken place since then. 

The funding can be used to cover evacuation expenses, or even air filter replacements. Applicants must meet income requirements. The organization also says anyone who “receives reimbursement for their expenses from any other public or private source” isn't eligible for the program. 

Qualified households must submit applications by June 30 – they can do that by making an appointment with ESR online or by phone.