$15.3 Million Allocated by Pritzker Administration for Home Renovation Grants

The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) marked a significant milestone today with the launch of the Home Repair and Accessibility Program (HRAP). This program is crafted with the objective of aiding homeowners with low and very low incomes who require health, safety, accessibility, and energy efficiency improvements to their homes. With a remarkable provision of $15.3 million, HRAP aims to preserve the affordable housing landscape, stimulate investment in underprivileged communities, improve the living conditions of occupants, and facilitate people with disabilities to remain in their homes and communities. Eligible homeowners can avail themselves of up to $45,000 for indispensable repairs through a five-year, forgivable loan scheme.

“Every citizen of Illinois is entitled to housing that is safe and accessible, regardless of their economic status or geographical location,” stated Governor JB Pritzker. He further added, “This home improvement grant program, endowed with $15.3 million, is slated to provide low-income and disabled Illinoisans with the resources and assistance necessary for them to continue living in their homes, while simultaneously investing in communities that have been overlooked and under-resourced for far too long.”

The execution of HRAP will be conducted locally through 36 experienced local government and nonprofit organizations adept in operating and managing homeowner rehabilitation aid programs. The eligibility criteria for homeowners include having an income at or below 80 percent of the Area Median Income, calculated on household size, being current on mortgage payments, and owning a single-family property.

Mayor Thomas McNamara of the City of Rockford voiced his support for the program, stating, “Whether your house needs a new roof, accessibility improvements to ensure your continued residence, or essential repairs that you can’t afford, HRAP might be able to assist.” The City of Rockford will administer the program for Winnebago County residents, urging them to apply promptly as the assistance does not require repayment.

To qualify, properties must be the primary residence of the homeowner. Fixed mobile homes are permitted if the homeowner owns the land beneath the mobile home and can register the IHDA mortgage against the property. Renter-occupied properties are also eligible for accessibility enhancements. Detailed information on eligibility and a directory of administering agencies are available on the IHDA website.

Kristin Faust, IHDA Executive Director, urged Illinois homeowners who have postponed necessary repairs due to financial constraints to apply for assistance via HRAP.

To qualify for rehabilitation, properties must exhibit documented health and safety issues such as mechanical, electrical, structural, or plumbing concerns that compromise the home’s integrity. Properties that require accessibility enhancements to assist an occupant with a disability or mobility impairment are also eligible. For properties that solely require roof work, eligible homeowners may receive up to $21,500 through a three-year forgivable loan.

Community Partners for Affordable Housing (CPAH) President Rob Anthony urged eligible homeowners in need of critical home improvements to apply for HRAP grants, which provide up to $45,000.

The HRAP was conceived in 2022 by combining the Single-Family Rehabilitation and Home Accessibility Programs. Funded through the Illinois Affordable Housing Trust Fund, a percentage of Illinois’ real estate transfer tax receipts are directed to the fund.

The program aims to assist low-income homeowners and renters to remain in their homes in a safe and secure condition, especially the elderly and individuals with disabilities, stated Nicole Murray, Executive Director of Will County Habitat for Humanity.

Homeowners interested in applying for HRAP grants can reach out to one of the funded organizations serving their community. These organizations will provide further information on eligibility and application procedures. Households residing in areas not currently served by HRAP are encouraged to contact a HUD-certified housing counseling agency to explore their options beyond HRAP.