Columbus, Ohio-based Woda Cooper Companies is creating an interim rental assistance fund and waiving late rent fees for residents whose jobs are directly impacted by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The company has halted planned celebrations commemorating its 30th anniversary later this year to focus on helping residents navigate financial impacts of the pandemic.
“Woda Cooper is celebrating its 30th year in business. We have developed, built, and continue to own and operate more than 300 affordable housing communities in 15 states,” said Principals Jeffrey J. Woda and David Cooper, Jr. in a joint statement. “It is a privilege and an honor to serve the states, cities, and communities where we have properties, but we never forget that our residents are our highest priority. In lieu of a 30th anniversary celebration, we have decided as a company to establish a rental assistance fund and put in place new policies to support our residents whose jobs are directly impacted as a result of coronavirus crisis.”
Woda Cooper will waive all late fees for rent due April 1 for any resident who has been laid off or furloughed as a result of the coronavirus crisis. In addition, the company will establish an interim rental assistance fund of $250,000 to assist residents of its properties who have been laid off or furloughed; and Woda Cooper has asked vendors, lenders, and investors to help in their effort and will match the first $250,000 of contributions received and add those funds to the resident rental assistance fund.
