Campaign To Raise Funds For Bucks Co. Eviction Prevention Program Extended

BUCKS COUNTY, PA — A grassroots effort led by the Bucks County Opportunity Council to fund a new eviction prevention program in the county has been extended until the end of August.

Bucks County philanthropist Gene Epstein, known for surprising Lower Bucks residents standing in line for fresh produce with $100 bills, is offering to match any donation made between now and the end of the month in support of the new program.

During the challenge period, every dollar raised will be matched, up to $50,000, by the Gene and Marlene Epstein Humanitarian Fund.

“That means together we can give families not just a second chance, but a path toward long-term stability,” said Gene.

Each day in Bucks County, families face the devastating possibility of eviction. Often, a temporary financial hardship can quickly become a life-changing crisis.

According to the Housing Alliance of Pennsylvania, Bucks County has the 6th highest eviction filing rate in the state, with 14 renter households facing an eviction filing every day - the greatest percentage of these occurring in the Bensalem area.

The new Eviction Prevention Pilot Program intends to help up to 25 households avoid eviction by providing emergency rental assistance, legal guidance, and personalized case management focused on helping families regain stability and increase their income.

“Avoiding eviction means avoiding trauma…homelessness, missing work, changing schools,” said Bucks County Opportunity Council CEO Erin Lukoss. “The well-being of everyone in a household is affected when facing eviction.”

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According to Lukoss, the drive is looking to secure $150,000 in funding, which will be directed toward these goals:

• Prevent families from losing their homes.
• Connect tenants with legal assistance.
• Support employment and income growth.
• Build stronger, more stable communities throughout Bucks County.

Preventing eviction before it becomes homelessness is a critical challenge facing low-income families, said Lukoss. “With this pilot Eviction Prevention Program, we believe we can bring impactful change and stability to families in crisis.

With their donation and challenge, Gene and Marlene hope to inspire others who can contribute to help make a difference.

Donations can be made directly to the Bucks County Opportunity Council through this link, DonorPerfect Forms. For more information, contact Joe Cuozzo at jcuozzo@bcoc.org or call 215-345-8175 x204.