A new, federal home loan program is accepting applications from residents of Douglas and Elbert counties through the Douglas County Housing Partnership.

The new program offers a declining balance, deferred payment “bridge loan” for up to $50,000 to assist eligible homeowners who have become unemployed or underemployed and are at risk of losing their home because of the economic downturn or a medical condition.

The money will be distributed through a statewide lottery. The applications must be received in the partnership office by 5 p.m. July 22 for an applicant’s name to be submitted into the lottery.

To review the qualifications requirements for the Emergency Home Loan Program visit http://www.findehlp.org/.

Application forms are at http://www.findehlp.org/.

Completed applications may be sent to Douglas County Housing Partnership and must be received by July 22:

Email applications to ahugh@douglas.co.us or mail them to Douglas County Housing Partnership, Ann Hugh, 9350 Heritage Hills Circle, Lone Tree, CO 80124

Applications can be faxed to 303-814-2966.