Maricopa County program offers financial assistance for funeral costs
Oct 15, 2020, 4:05 AM
PHOENIX – Maricopa County and Valley of the Sun United Way are providing assistance to families who suffered a financial loss because of the coronavirus pandemic and are also coping with the loss of a loved one.
The Maricopa County Funeral Assistance Program will cover up to $1,200 in burial or cremation expenses at participating funeral homes.
“Many Valley families face difficult choices due to the health and economic pressures created by the pandemic,” Carla Vargas Jasa, CEO and President of Valley of the Sun United Way, said in a press release Tuesday.
“Saying goodbye to a loved one with dignity should not add to this financial and emotional stress.”
Applicants must provide proof of reduced income during the COVID-19 pandemic plus proof of Maricopa County residency.
The decedent did not have to die of COVID-19 for the family to be eligible for assistance.
The Maricopa County Board of Supervisors approved the program Aug. 10. Valley of the Sun United Way started taking paper applications Sept. 14 and launched an online portal a week later.
The program is funded by CARES Act dollars.