$11.8 Million State Grant to Boost Local Homeowner Assistance and Property Rehabilitation
The California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) has made a significant commitment to enhancing homeownership opportunities, neighborhood revitalization, and sustainable development across the state. In a recent announcement, the HCD revealed the allocation of over $126 million in funding, aimed at maximizing the use of existing homes and supporting sustainable community growth in 23 counties across California.
This substantial funding is part of the CalHome program, which has granted 38 awards to various projects. These projects are specifically designed to support homeownership programs that cater to low- and very low-income households. The funding was made available to a diverse range of recipients, including local government agencies, tribes, and nonprofit organizations, ensuring a broad impact across different communities.
A significant portion of this funding, amounting to more than $11.8 million, is earmarked for projects in California’s Central Valley. This region, known for its agricultural productivity, will benefit greatly from these initiatives, which are expected to enhance local housing opportunities and contribute to community development.
HCD Director Gustavo Velasquez emphasized the importance of homeownership in achieving housing security and building generational wealth. “Becoming a homeowner is one of the surest ways to gain housing security and build generational wealth,” Velasquez stated. “CalHome presents a tremendous opportunity to make homeownership possible for people who never thought it would be attainable, strengthening both families and communities.” This statement underscores the program’s goal of making homeownership more accessible and providing a stable foundation for future generations.
In Clovis, a city known for its rich cultural heritage and community spirit, the program is making a significant impact. The City of Clovis received $1.39 million for owner-occupied rehabilitations of 20 units and an additional $415,600 to assist first-time homebuyers for eight units, particularly benefiting owners of manufactured homes.
Rural areas are also a focus of the program, with substantial awards being allocated to Fresno County ($4.78 million), Tulare County ($1.5 million), and Kings County ($3.7 million). These funds will support various housing projects, addressing the unique needs of rural communities and enhancing the quality of life for residents.
Self-Help Enterprises, a notable recipient of the funding, has been granted $1.06 million to provide first-time homebuyer mortgage assistance across several counties, including Kern, Tulare, Merced, and Madera. This funding will support a total of 12 units, offering a significant boost to homeownership in these areas.
In summary, the CalHome program’s allocation of over $126 million by the California Department of Housing and Community Development represents a significant investment in the state’s housing infrastructure. By focusing on low- and very low-income households and providing targeted support to both urban and rural areas, the program is set to make a meaningful difference in the lives of many Californians, fostering sustainable communities and enhancing homeownership opportunities across the state.