Ameris Bank Grant to Increase Homeownership in Historic Eastside

During a celebration event earlier this fall, LISC Jacksonville received a $50,000 grant from Ameris Bank to grow its Project Boots homeownership program. The grant will provide down-payment assistance to homebuyers to purchase or build new homes in infield neighborhoods starting with the Historic Eastside neighborhood, demonstrating Ameris Bank’s and LISC Jacksonville’s mutual commitment to building stronger communities through homeownership.

“Ameris Bank’s support furthers the necessary momentum we have been building for increased homeownership in historically Black communities through Project Boots,” said LISC Jacksonville Executive Director Dr. Irvin “PeDro” Cohen. “With each new homeowner who establishes or re-establishes roots in communities like the Historic Eastside, we continue to evolve the trajectory and narrative of these communities – which is why this momentum is so important. Providing a guided pathway to homeownership invests in both individuals and communities at the same time.”

Launched in Sept. 2021, Project Boots provides support and guidance for residents on their path toward homeownership in the Historic Eastside neighborhood. Since that time, LISC Jacksonville has celebrated three home closings, broken ground on four additional homes and initiated a second cohort of Project Boots participants. LISC Jacksonville anticipates closing on two additional homes by the end of October. Financial support to grow the program’s impact, further empowered by Ameris Bank’s recent investment, has continued to build during the past three years.

“By investing in the Eastside, we are not only promoting homeownership, but also fostering long-term community growth and stability in Jacksonville,” said Ameris Bank Director of Community Lending Clyde Anderson.  “Our commitment to revitalizing this area underscores the power we have to create lasting and positive change in the communities we serve.”

To successfully complete the Project Boots program and purchase their new home, participants must meet a monthly savings requirement, which is matched during the 10-month program commitment. They must also complete 10 required homeownership training sessions, which cover areas such as financial components of homeownership, using homeownership as a wealth-building mechanism, health-related topics, home maintenance and insurance, and other areas. The sessions are led by LISC Jacksonville and various subject-matter experts. Once complete, participants are able to receive down-payment assistance funds to then purchase and build a new home on existing vacant lots in the Historic Eastside and, in the future, other LISC-supported neighborhoods.

Earlier this year, Ameris Bank also launched the Ameris Choice program in Jacksonville, providing financial assistance to qualified applicants to purchase or refinance a home in a majority Black and Hispanic census tract in Jacksonville.