Home Savers Program
Rationale: Many first-time, low-income homeowners continue to have financial challenges that make it difficult for them to sustain their house and property. A major concern presented by many families is their inability to adequately maintain and repair their homes once they are home-owners. Home Savers is a 2:1 matched savings program that aids families in maintaining their homes as an asset. Without sufficient resources for repairs and upkeep, the property can deteriorate, along with property values, and foreclosure can occur.
Major Program Objectives :
- Increase resources for home maintenance for low-income families,
- Avoid asset deterioration and potential foreclosure for families,
- Increase the stability of residents, thus reducing risk factors such as delinquency, drug trafficking, and gang activity,
- Improving the quality of life for neighborhoods by improving housing stock and preventing urban blight.
Who participates ?
- Low-income homeowners referred by:
- Family Asset Building , The Family Conservancy
- El Centro , Inc.
- Kaw Valley Habitat for Humanity
- Housing Authority of Kansas City, Kansas
What do participants do?
Participants will receive a match for the money they are able to save. For every dollar saved by the homeowner, a two dollar match will be available for repair/maintenance needs. Participants will receive training in managing finances as well as home management skills and a health and safety inspection. They will receive low-cost technical assistance and repair materials at a reduced price. They will receive family advocacy services to help with unexpected difficulties (e.g. medical expenses, family issues).
Donated resources and services
Home maintenance/ repair and money smart classes by El Centro, Inc. and Kaw Valley Habitat for Humanity
Housing inspections by the Housing Authority of Kansas City , Kansas
Marketing by Bank Midwest, Family Asset Building - The Family Conservancy, and the University of Kansas
Family advocacy services for participating families by University of Kansas
Office space/utilities by Rosedale Development Association