Media Release – July 25, 2003

Up to $2 million offered for home repair and home purchase money to nonprofits in disaster areas

The Missouri Housing Development Commission is offering $2 million to not-for-profit agencies who are servicing federal disaster areas.

The first $1.5 million will be made available for repair and improvement of owner-occupied homes while the remaining $500,000 will be used for down payment assistance for home purchase.

“We participated in public meetings throughout the state in June to identify areas where we could help in disaster recovery.  These were the programs that seemed to meet the greatest needs,” said Erica Dobreff, MHDC Executive Director.

Eligible applicants include not-for-profit agencies serving all non-metropolitan areas of the State of Missouri or any county designated as a Federal Disaster Area by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

“This funding is available to Community Action Agencies and other not-for-profit organizations that will conduct programs on behalf of low and moderate income families in eligible areas.  MHDC will select proposals from agencies that show experience in these type programs and the capacity to use these funds,” said Don Brinker, Homeownership Program manager.  “The funds are part of our federal HOME allocation.  We hope this will directly target the needs of Missouri residents in the disaster recovery process.”

The $1.5 million in HOME repair funds are for rehabilitation, weatherization, reduction of lead risk and for accessibility improvements, which may include modifications to allow the elderly to remain in their homes.  The maximum award to each agency will be $300,000.

The $500,000 in down payment assistance includes down payment and closing cost assistance that is allowable under current MHDC loan programs.  The maximum award to each agency will be $100,000. 

Applications for the funding will be accepted by MHDC until 4:30 p.m., Central Daylight Time, August 11, 2003 at MHDC offices:  3435 Broadway, Kansas City, MO 64111.  Applications are available on the MHDC Web site at www.mhdc.com  (this includes program descriptions outlining eligible activities).  For more information, contact Don Brinker at 816.759.6814.

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NOTE TO EDITORS:  Media representative questions can be directed to Brandon Laster, Public Information Officer, at 816.759.6692 or e-mail blaster@mhdc.com.