Anoka Minnesota: Get $1,000–$5,000 for Home Exterior Improvements (No Income Limits)

Anoka's C.A.R.E. Grant: Up to $5,000 for Your Home's Exterior

The city of Anoka, Minnesota is investing $100,000 in homeowners through the 2026 Curb Appeal Residential Enhancement (C.A.R.E.) Grant Program. Individual homeowners can receive between $1,000 and $5,000 to cover 25% of qualifying exterior improvement costs.

What makes this program stand out: there are no income limits. This isn't means-tested assistance — it's a strategic investment in neighborhood quality by the Anoka Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA).

Note: The February 28, 2026 application deadline has passed for this cycle. The lottery drawing is March 2, 2026. Watch for future C.A.R.E. grant cycles if you missed this round.

What Does the Grant Cover?

The C.A.R.E. grant covers exterior beautification and improvement projects. Eligible projects typically include:

• New siding or exterior painting
• Fence installation or replacement
• Driveway or sidewalk repair
• Landscaping and yard improvements
• Porch or deck repairs
• Window and door replacements (exterior-facing)

The grant covers 25% of your project cost, up to a maximum of $5,000. That means a $20,000 exterior project could get you the maximum grant amount.

Who Is Eligible?

Unlike many housing programs, C.A.R.E. has no income requirements — but it does have property-based requirements:

• Property must be within Anoka city limits
• Must be a 1–4 unit residential building (single-family, townhome, twin home, or condo)
• Must be owner-occupied with active homestead status
• Relative homesteads are not eligible
• Must have an estimated market value that meets program thresholds (per Anoka County records)
• All property taxes must be current

Because interest exceeds available funding each year, recipients are selected through a public lottery drawing. You don't have to be present to win.

How to Apply (Next Cycle)

Applications for the 2026 cycle closed February 28, 2026. To apply in the next round:

• Contact the Anoka Housing and Redevelopment Authority
• Visit Anoka City Hall for program updates
• Sign up for city notifications so you don't miss the next application window

Why No Income Limits?

The C.A.R.E. program is authorized under Minnesota's housing and redevelopment statutes, which allow cities to preserve housing quality, prevent blight, and strengthen neighborhood vitality. It's not charity — it's a targeted investment. By requiring homeowners to cover 75% of project costs, the city ensures financial commitment while using public dollars as leverage to drive larger improvements.