Advocates scrambling to find housing

Twenty-two families in McCook are frantically searching the town for homes to rent after receiving notice that their apartment building, St. Catherine's, the former hospital in the 1200 block of West Fourth, will close by Feb. 1, 2010.

Another group of five households is also looking for new digs, as the owners of another apartment complex in McCook have notified renters of their intention to get out of the business.

Barb Ostrum, coordinator of the McCook office of Community Action Partnership of Mid-Nebraska, said Wednesday morning that she is assisting many of the affected families in their search for rental properties. "I'm very, very concerned," Ostrum said, looking over a short list of available rentals and affordable housing. "Some families are at a total loss ... They're really feeling overwhelmed."

Apartments at St. Cat's rent for $260 to $310 per month, depending on the number of bedrooms. Gas, water and cable television access are included.

"Where are these families -- many of whom live on very limited incomes or Society Security -- going to find new homes and pay first- and last-month's rent, damage deposits ... utility deposits?, I'm not blaming anyone, or pointing fingers at anyone. I understand the economics," Ostrum asked. "I'm doing all I can," she said, "but I don't have the money to help. The money is just not going to be there."

Ostrum said that a new federal program, funded with American Recovery and Reinvestment Act stimulus money, may be available for some, explaining that she will know more about that possible option and its mountains of requisite paperwork later. McCook City Manager Kurt Fritsch said Wednesday afternoon that the city cannot waive its required $150 water deposit, but will allow payments over time. And, he said, the city will work with coordinating groups as they assist families who must relocate.

Ostrum pondered the situation a bit more ... " ... to say nothing about getting everyone physically moved."

Anyone needing help with relocating is encouraged to call Ostrum's office, (308) 345-1187 and leave a message if necessary; she'll call back; or Rebecca Dutcher, director of the McCook Housing Agency (308) 345-3605.

Ostrum asks, too, that landlords with rentals available please call her office. She said most of the displaced families need one- or two-bedroom homes, while several need three-bedroom homes. Several need rentals that will allow pets, she said.