The HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) is a federal initiative established under Title II of the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act of 1990. The program is designed to expand the availability of affordable housing by financing new construction, rehabilitation, substantial rehabilitation, and acquisition of housing units. The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) administers the state's HOME program, distributing funds received from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The program is structured to promote community stability, economic growth, and revitalization through targeted investments in affordable housing.

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania prioritizes the use of HOME funds for specific activities, including the creation or preservation of rental housing through new construction and rehabilitation, homeownership assistance for first-time homebuyers, rehabilitation of existing owner-occupied housing, and single-family affordable housing development. These activities align with Pennsylvania's Keystone Principles for Growth, Investment, and Resource Conservation, ensuring that funding is directed toward projects that demonstrate economic and social benefits for communities.

Eligible applicants for the program include units of local government such as cities, towns, counties, boroughs, and townships. Non-profit organizations and developers cannot apply directly but may seek funding through an eligible governmental applicant. Certain HUD-designated HOME Participating Jurisdictions (PJs) may also apply under specific conditions based on their annual allocation of HOME funds. The program mandates that at least 15% of the state’s allocation be reserved for Community Housing Development Organizations (CHDOs), which must be certified by DCED.

Applications for HOME funding must be submitted electronically through DCED’s Electronic Single Application system. The application process is competitive, with proposals evaluated based on priority criteria, project feasibility, and the applicant's capacity to execute and manage the proposed activity. Applications must include detailed documentation, such as a Citizen Participation Plan, proof of other committed funding sources, and environmental review records. Successful applicants receive an award letter outlining conditions that must be met before contracts are finalized.

The program has specific funding limits, including a minimum application request of $50,000. Funding caps vary by applicant type and project category. Additionally, all rental housing projects must demonstrate a matching contribution of at least 25%. The program adheres to various federal and state requirements, including the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the Davis-Bacon Act for construction labor standards, and Pennsylvania’s prevailing wage laws.

For more information or application assistance, potential applicants must consult with DCED HOME program staff prior to submission. DCED provides various supplemental resources and program materials through its website. The application process includes multiple deadlines, and updates regarding funding cycles and requirements are communicated via DCED’s Community & Housing Development alerts.