In this section you’ll find information on affordable rental housing through government programs, resources for making your home accessible, as well as grants and low interest loans to improve your home.
If you’re facing financial hardship and find yourself at risk of losing your home, you’ll also find resources on foreclosure and mortgage counseling. Also included here is a nationwide HUD directory for reverse mortgage counseling to turn the equity in your home into cash payments (for homeowners 62 and up).
Housing Choice Voucher Program (Formerly Section 8)
The Housing Choice Voucher Program is a government funded rent assistance program with the goal of providing housing to low-income earners outside of public housing units. If you meet income requirements, you can apply to receive a voucher for a portion of rent on a home or apartment, as they become available. Providing a doctor’s note stating a member of the household has a disability can often speed up the process of receiving a voucher.
This helpful article published in January of 2020 by ProPublica.org can help lead you through the process from beginning to end, complete with resources.
Disability Home Renovation Programs and Grants
Housing and Repair Loans and Grants for Rural Homes
Federal program for low-income rural homeowners, 62 or older, to repair, improve, modernize, or to remove health and safety hazards in the home. Program offers very low interest loans, grants, or a combination of the two.
National Residential Improvement Association
Private sector organization that links homeowners needing necessary repairs and modifications to federal, state and local grants, special low interest or government backed loans, tax credits or incentives.
Home Improvement and Structural Alterations Program (HISA)
Government grant program providing structural alterations and renovations to the homes of veterans with disabilities that resulted from service in the military.
The Travis Roy Foundation Grant Program
Private sector, housing modification grant program for quadriplegic and paraplegic homeowners due to traumatic spinal cord injury.
Rebuilding Together Americorps Program
Nationwide non-profit organization geared towards providing critical home repairs and modifications in underserved communities.
Government Foreclosure Assistance
US Dept of Housing and Urban Development Office of Housing Counseling:
HUD sponsored counseling agencies by state providing advice on renting, homeownership, mortgage default and foreclosure.
Make Home Affordable Or 888-995-HOPE (4673)
US Dept of Treasury & US Dept of Housing and Urban Development mortgage assistance and counseling
Government refinance program for homeowners at risk of losing their home due to loan default or foreclosure.
Reverse Mortgage Counseling
Reverse mortgages are an option for homeowners 62 and older to use part of the equity (accumulated value) of their home to receive cash payments from the bank. The reverse mortgage loan is not required to be paid back until the home is sold, or otherwise vacated. The homeowners must stay up to date on property taxes to remain eligible.
Housing and Urban Development Counselor Directory
This link will take you to HUD approved housing counseling agencies.
