Texarkana, Texas, Invites Residents to Apply for Home Rebuilding
In Texarkana, Texas, an exciting opportunity has arisen for residents in need of home repairs and maintenance. The city is now accepting applications to assist qualifying individuals, particularly focusing on those living in low-income households. This initiative is part of the city’s effort to improve housing conditions and support its residents in maintaining safe and comfortable homes.
The city of Texarkana has been awarded a HOME Investment Partnerships Program grant by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs. This grant is specifically aimed at constructing new houses for low-income homeowners, addressing the critical need for affordable and decent housing in the community.
To facilitate the application process, the Texarkana HOME Program is organizing a two-day event. This event will be held on Tuesday, December 12, and Wednesday, December 13, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Bowie County Health Center, located at 902 W. 12th St. It’s important to note that applications for this program will only be accepted in person during these two days.
Recognizing the diverse needs of its residents, the city encourages individuals who may require special assistance to participate in the program. This includes persons with disabilities, those needing language interpretation, the elderly, or anyone with specific needs. They can request accommodations by calling 903-798-3904, ensuring that the program is accessible to all eligible residents.
The primary objective of the HOME Program is to increase the availability of safe, decent, and affordable housing for low-income families. The program offers financial support to demolish substandard housing and construct new homes on the same site. To be eligible, homeowners must meet several criteria: they must live in a substandard home, reside within the Texarkana city limits, own their home, be up-to-date on property taxes, have a clear title to their property, and have an income at or below 80% of the Bowie County median income.
Participation in the HOME Program comes at no cost to the homeowner. The assistance is provided either as a conditional grant for five years or as a deferred forgivable loan over 15 years. If the homeowner decides to sell the property within this period, they are required to repay a portion of the home’s cost. However, after the specified time, the grant or loan is completely forgiven.
This program represents a significant step towards improving the living conditions of low-income residents in Texarkana, Texas. By providing essential housing assistance, the city is not only enhancing the quality of life for its residents but also contributing to the overall development and well-being of the community. The HOME Program is a testament to Texarkana’s commitment to supporting its residents and ensuring that everyone has access to safe and affordable housing.
