With the memory of natural calamities still lingering in Houston's landscape and the minds of its residents, the city is stepping up its support for homeowners still grappling with the effects of Hurricane Harvey and the winter freeze of 2021. According to CW39, two significant housing initiatives have been unveiled by the Houston Housing and Community Development Department (HCD) aimed at assisting those impacted by these events.
The assistance comes in the form of the Winter Storm Uri Single-Family Home Repair Program and the Harvey Homebuyer Assistance Program 2.0, with over $50 million in funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), more than $40 million of which will go towards home repairs and reconstruction. The Single Family Home Repair Program prioritizes low-income elderly and disabled individuals, followed by households at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI), and then those at or below 120% of the AMI, as reported by FOX 26 Houston.
Homeowners affected by the severe winter freeze can potentially receive up to $10,000 for out-of-pocket repairs, while funds for home rehabilitation may reach $100,000, and up to $300,000 is available for complete home reconstruction. The aim is not only to repair, but to also rebuild stronger structures capable of withstanding future events.
Moving on from repairs, Houston has also committed $19 million to aid first-time homebuyers through the Harvey Homebuyer Assistance Program 2.0. Eligible low-income individuals, particularly those who lost their homes to Hurricane Harvey, can receive up to $125,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance. Qualifying criteria for applicants include residing at or below 120% of the AMI, living in Houston as of August 25, 2017, citizenship or legal permanent residency, completion of homebuyer education, and qualifying for a mortgage. This program offers a no-interest, forgivable loan, contingent upon residing in the purchased home for a predetermined period relative to the loan amount received.
Prospective applicants can take the next step by attending the upcoming Stepping into Homeownership Resource Fair on July 12, from 10 am to 12 pm at the Third Ward Multi-Service Center. Alternatively, for those seeking convenience or more personal assistance, Virtual Community Hours are held on Wednesdays between 1 and 4 p.m. where queries can be addressed by calling any of the three designated phone numbers: 832-394-6912, 832-394-6227, or 832-394-6126.
