Lorain County, with funding from the Ohio Department of Development, Office of Community Development, announced it is proud to offer Community Housing Impact and Preservation (CHIP) home repair and rehabilitation programs by way of the Lorain County Community Housing Impact and Preservation (CHIP) program, according to a news release.
The CHIP program, in partnership with the cities of Amherst, Oberlin, North Ridgeville and Sheffield Lake, provides home repairs or private rehabilitations for income eligible homeowners who reside in Lorain County, with the exception of Elyria and Lorain, the release said.
The Home Repair Program may include plumbing, electrical, roof, furnace, Americans with Disabilities Act modifications, water heater, walk-in shower and other health and safety needs, according to the release.
The assistance is in the form of a grant.
The Home Rehabilitation Program offers more extensive repairs and upgrades for homes, according to the release.
This assistance will be in the form of a declining-forgivable loan.
There is no monthly payment, and no interest will be charged, and no credit check is needed.
Also, 100% of the amount borrowed will be forgiven over five years provided that the owner continues to own and occupy the home, the release said.
“The cost to maintain a home can be a challenge,” said Rob Duncan, director of the Lorain County Community Development Department in the release. “We’re grateful the Lorain County commissioners allow us to offer these programs to the residents of the County, who could use the extra financial assistance to ensure their residence has the proper amenities needed for a functioning and safe environment.”
Kleinfelder Inc. will administer the Community Housing Impact & Preservation program.
For more information, call 877-836-3206 or email bcowell@kleinfelder.com.
Those interested also may visit online at www.loraincountyohio.gov/574/Fair-Housing-CHIP-and-CDBG
“This initiative reflects Lorain County’s commitment to fostering vibrant communities, empowering homeowners and creating safer housing environments,” said Lorain County Commission Board President Dave Moore in the release. “The county encourages eligible residents to take advantage of these programs, contributing to the overall well-being and sustainability of the community.”
The Lorain County Community Development Department’s mission is to serve Lorain County residents and businesses through community development initiatives by striving to, improve quality of life, foster smart growth, promote economic vitality, encourage development and redevelopment, and to provide tools to community leaders for management and for making policy decisions.
