$104K grant will repair 24 homes in Clark County

A $104,000 state grant will allow a local nonprofit housing organization to make repairs to 24 homes in Springfield and Clark County.

Neighborhood Housing Partnership of Greater Springfield received the grant earlier this year from the Ohio Development Services Agency as part of the Ohio Housing Trust Fund.

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The grant will provide emergency home repairs and handicapped access modifications for homeowners with household incomes at or below 50 percent of the Clark County area median income.

The waiting list for repairs is already at 20 homes, NHP Executive Director Tina Koumoutsos said.

“Obviously, there’s a need,” she said.

The money can be used for a major repair on one item for health and safety, such as a roof, plumbing or a heating and air conditioning unit.

“It’s such a blessing for the community,” she said. “We’re thrilled.”

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Low-income homeowners are often able to make mortgage payments, Koumoutsos said, but don’t have enough money left for major repairs.

“Without the ability to make that repair, a house can get comprised really quickly,” she said.

About $4.5 million was awarded to 22 nonprofit organizations in Ohio through a competitive application process. The money will repair more than 2,280 homes statewide. About $280,000 will be used for down payment assistance for about 88 households in Ohio.

“We worked really hard,” Koumoutsos said. “We know funding from the state has been reduced in recent years, just like everybody else. It’s really important to do your research and homework and build a strong case for the need of funding in the community. It paid off.”

For more information or to apply for emergency repair money, call the housing partnership at 937-322-4623.

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