The Home Investment Partnership Program, commonly referred to as the HOME program, is a federal initiative aimed at increasing the availability of decent and affordable housing. This program empowers state and local governments to develop and implement strategies that ensure an adequate supply of affordable housing. It provides both financial and technical assistance to participating jurisdictions and fosters collaboration among various stakeholders, including government entities and both for-profit and nonprofit organizations involved in affordable housing production and management. The City of Syracuse has been actively participating in this program since its inception, utilizing HOME funds to support neighborhood revitalization efforts.

The primary purpose of the HOME program is to enhance the supply of affordable housing through various activities. These include the construction of new homes, rehabilitation of existing properties, and support for developers and nonprofit housing organizations in improving neighborhoods. The program also funds projects that provide developer subsidies and direct assistance to homebuyers, thereby facilitating access to affordable housing options for residents.

Funding through the HOME program is available for a range of activities related to housing development. This includes financial support for building new homes, renovating existing properties, and assisting developers and nonprofit organizations in their efforts to enhance neighborhood conditions. The program aims to create a sustainable impact on the housing market by ensuring that affordable housing is accessible to those in need.

To be eligible for funding, applicants must certify or recertify as a Community Housing Development Organization. They must also demonstrate the necessary financial management and programmatic expertise to successfully execute the proposed activities. This expertise can be shown through prior experience in developing similar projects, either by the organization itself or through key staff members. Additionally, applicants must comply with various federal requirements related to the HOME program, including those concerning equal opportunity, fair housing, environmental review, and other regulatory standards.

The application process requires potential applicants to submit detailed proposals that address specific questions related to their projects. These questions typically focus on the applicant's experience, project design, and implementation strategies. Evaluation criteria will assess the feasibility and potential impact of the proposed activities, ensuring that funded projects align with the program's objectives.

The grant period for the HOME program is set from May 1, 2025, to April 30, 2026. The deadline for submitting applications is October 25, 2024. It is important for applicants to be aware of these dates to ensure timely submission of their proposals.

For further information regarding the application process and specific requirements, interested parties can contact the Department of Neighborhood and Business Development in Syracuse. The contact email is rchoiniere@syr.gov, and the phone number is 315-448-8106. This program represents a significant opportunity for organizations committed to improving housing conditions and supporting community development in Syracuse.