DETROIT – Hundreds of struggling families will benefit from the newly announced $20M Detroit Home Repair Fund.
According to recent research, about 8,500 homes are considered inadequate. It’s something homeowners like Loretta Powell know firsthand.
“My furnace wasn’t working. My water heater wasn’t working. It was stressful. You never know what’s gonna happen,” said Powell.
The Gilbert Family Foundation, DTE and ProMedica are just a few of the sponsors hoping to alleviate some of the pain that pain with a $20 million investment.
“We just know that so many people are struggling to afford huge home repair costs, especially today with increasing construction costs, which can be very difficult,” said Gilbert Family Foundation Executive Director Laura Grannemann.
Those who previously qualified for the Detroit Tax Relief Fund in 2022 will also be eligible for the Detroit home repair fund. Part of the campaign is to make sure homes within the city thrive and not end up condemned like so many others.
“Of course, we want to provide those new resources. But one of the most important parts of this fund is that it brings together existing resources,” said Grannemann.
Mayor Duggan and City Council President Mary Sheffield were also present, making it known that this is a program Detroiters desperately need.
“The number one issue is that we hear day in and day out is ‘I need grant funding for my home,’” said Sheffield.
Not only is the program a way to provide resources, but it’s also breaking down Systemic barriers, saving homes that have been in families for generations.
“We are about to break a cycle that has trapped thousands of Detroit residents over the last two decades. They either live in unsafe homes because they can’t afford critical home repair resources, or they leave their properties,” Grannemann said.
People can start benefiting as early as June or July.
If you would like to see if you qualify, call 313-306-2082.