HARRISBURG – Two state grants totaling $1 million dollars will be directed to the 23rd Senatorial District for affordable housing rehabilitation initiatives, according to state Sen. Gene Yaw (R-23).
The Investment Partnership Program (HOME), administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), is a federally funded program that provides municipalities with grant and loan assistance to expand and preserve the supply of decent and affordable housing for low and very low-income Pennsylvanians.
“I am pleased to hear that both Union County, as well as South Williamsport Borough, have each been approved for $500,000,” Sen. Yaw said. “Many low-income families are struggling right now and do not have the financial resources to address deteriorating home conditions. Children and families rely on these investments to increase their safety and prevent homelessness.”
The funding will enable Union County to address existing owner-occupied housing rehabilitation on 15 homes throughout the county, with the intent to correct all major code deficiencies for those homeowners whose income falls under 80% of the area medium income level.
Further, the grant funding will enable South Williamsport Borough’s owner-occupied housing rehabilitation program to rehabilitate nine homes, correcting all major code deficiencies. Each of the homes is occupied by one or more low-to moderate income residents who would otherwise be unable to afford repairs. The rehabilitation budget will help support local contractors, material suppliers, inspectors and rehabilitation specialists.
HOME funds can be used in a variety of ways to address critical housing needs in the Commonwealth, including market-oriented approaches that offer opportunities such as homeownership or rental activities to revitalize communities with new investment. Program funds are provided to DCED from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through the annual entitlement appropriation process. The program’s priorities are:
- New construction and rehabilitation of housing units for affordable rental or homeownership opportunities;
- Rehabilitation of owner-occupied dwelling units;
- Assistance to first-time homebuyers, including acquisition and rehabilitation assistance; and
- Assistance to Community Housing Development Organizations (CHDO) engaged in eligible CHDO rental or homeownership projects.
All eligible uses must benefit very low, low, and/or moderate-income households.
For more state-related news and information, visit Senator Yaw’s website at www.SenatorGeneYaw.com or on Facebook and Twitter @SenatorGeneYaw.
CONTACT:
Rita Zielonis, Chief of Staff (717) 787-3280