Efforts to Enhance Affordable Housing Underway in Pennsylvania
The Shapiro Administration has announced a significant investment aimed at increasing affordable housing options across Pennsylvania. With a total commitment of $6,077,776, the funds are set to benefit low-income residents in 12 counties through the HOME Investment Partnerships Program.
Administered by the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), the HOME program is focused on providing grants and loans to municipalities. These resources are crucial for expanding and maintaining housing options for low- and very low-income individuals in the state.
“The HOME Investment Partnerships Program has a crucial role in improving access to safe, affordable housing for low-income Pennsylvanians ― creating a stable foundation for families and individuals to thrive while also supporting dynamic, vibrant local economies,” stated Secretary Rick Siger of DCED. The administration is dedicated to increasing housing availability to support both the workforce and those in need of affordable housing.
Details of the awarded funds include:
- Crawford County: $596,407 allocated to the City of Meadville for the construction of six one-bedroom apartments for very low-income and disabled individuals. These units will be built by a modular home manufacturer and will include three accessible units.
- Luzerne County: $318,000 given to the City of Pittston to build a three-bedroom modular unit on Gaffney Drive for lease-to-purchase by a low-income household.
- Schuylkill County: $400,000 designated for the City of Pottsville to rehabilitate eight owner-occupied homes in collaboration with Schuylkill Community Action.
- Somerset County: $250,000 allocated to rehabilitate six owner-occupied homes, in partnership with the Somerset County Redevelopment Authority and Center for Community Action.
- Union County: $400,000 for the rehabilitation of seven owner-occupied homes, working with the Union County Housing Authority.
The DCED receives its HOME program funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). These funds can be applied to various housing projects, including the construction and rehabilitation of affordable units and assistance for first-time homebuyers.
Tackling Housing Challenges Under Governor Shapiro
Since taking office, Governor Josh Shapiro has implemented several initiatives to address housing issues in Pennsylvania:
- Issued an Executive Order to develop the state’s first comprehensive Housing Action Plan.
- Increased the cap for the Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement Fund (PHARE) by $10 million, resulting in a 55% increase in funded projects.
- Allocated over $120.3 million through the Whole-Home Repairs program to assist homeowners and landlords in 64 counties.
- Secured $5 million for the Help at Home (OPTIONS) program to reduce senior waitlists for in-home services.
- Invested $2.5 million to provide legal support for individuals facing eviction, marking the first state funding for this purpose.
- Advocated for a $5 million increase for the Homeless Assistance Program to enhance supportive housing services.
For more information about the HOME Investment Partnerships Program and the DCED, please visit the DCED website. Stay informed about the latest updates by following DCED on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.
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