Woonsocket re-launches HUD-funded 'Safe at Home' rehab program; up to $75,000 per house
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Summary
City staff announced that HUD has issued HOME/CDBG awards and that the 'Safe at Home' home rehabilitation program will provide up to $75,000 per single-family homeowner (50% forgivable) for income-eligible households; applications will be first-come, first-served and available online and in person.
City staff told the Woonsocket City Council on Jan. 12 that federal HUD funds are now available and the city is relaunching a home-rehabilitation program called 'Safe at Home' to assist income-qualified homeowners with health-and-safety repairs.
Lorena Esposito, federal administrator for programs and grants, said HUD has issued the grant award and the program uses HOME funding under federal rules (24 CFR part 92). Eligible homeowners with household incomes at or below 80% of area median income may receive up to $75,000 for a single-family home or up to $32,500 per unit for two- and three-unit properties. Esposito described the assistance as a loan in which 50% of the award is forgivable after an affordability period while 50% is deferred and repaid if the property is sold, transferred or refinanced; repaid deferred funds will be recycled into future programs.
Esposito said the city budget line for the home program shows roughly $1,000,005.22 available for this activity, applications will be accepted both online and in person, and the city will provide application assistance on Thursdays and Fridays. Program staff said applications will be reviewed on a fully completed, first-come, first-served basis and that funding is limited; residents were urged to check the city's website and social media for application materials and guidance.