Columbus, OH — Lieutenant Governor Lee Fisher announced (August 22, 2007) that 61 communities were awarded more than $31.1 million from the Community Housing Improvement Program, administered by the Ohio Department of Development, to fund home repair, rental rehabilitation, tenant-based rental assistance, down payment assistance, new construction, infrastructure installation/improvement, public service, and planning activities. The grants will assist approximately 1,410 low- and moderate-income households consisting of 3,807 people, and are expected to leverage $19.4 million in private and public dollars. The grants also will enable 29 of the award recipients to construct 45 homes in cooperation with local Habitat for Humanity affiliates.
“The Community Housing Improvement Program recognizes the hardships that Ohioans all too often face and helps provide solutions to ensure that residents have safe and secure homes,” said Lt. Governor Lee Fisher, who also serves as Director of the Ohio Department of Development. “Whether it is fixing a roof for a mother and her children, or providing disabled Ohioans an opportunity for independence, these funds are instrumental in enhancing the quality of life for Ohioans, especially during times of great need.”
The Community Housing Improvement Program assists local governments in providing resources that maintain, improve, and expand affordable housing for low- and moderate-income Ohioans. The applications are reviewed using the following criteria: community distress; administrative capacity/past performance; program design/housing strategy compliance; cost effectiveness; leverage; and coordination.
The Community Housing Improvement Program is funded with Ohio Small Cities Community Development Block Grant Program, HOME Investment Partnerships Program and Ohio Housing Trust Fund dollars.
