We are excited to share that LISC Greater Kansas City’s Regional Housing Initiative recently received a $3 million federal Community Project Funding grant that will help provide affordable housing for residents in Kansas City.
The grant was announced by U.S. Rep Emanuel Cleaver II, chairman of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing, at a morning press conference on April 12.
In addition to providing critical funds to increase the affordable housing production, the grant also will provide resources for homeownership education, down payment assistance, and minor home repairs. Furthermore, the grant supports the creation of a Regional Housing Partnership with LISC, Mid-America Regional Council (MARC) and numerous area stakeholders to address underlying systemic issues around affordable housing across the region.
The Regional Housing Initiative is one of 10 community projects championed by Congressman Cleaver. All of those projects will directly affect citizens of Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District.
“I’ve said it many times before – having a roof over your head, a place to call home, and a sense of community is central to your somebodiness,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Which is why I am thrilled to have secured $3 million in community project funding to support the critical work carried out by LISC Greater Kansas City through their Regional Housing Initiative. This federal investment will increase access to affordable housing and programming that makes home ownership achievable for individuals and families throughout the region.”
“When we invest in a sound infrastructure of affordable housing, we are really investing in whole range of opportunities for families and communities to thrive,” said Denise Scott, LISC president. “We’re grateful for Rep. Cleaver’s leadership to bring vital housing resources to Kansas City and to advance a collaborative strategy that will benefit local residents, create jobs, and support a stronger, more inclusive regional economy."
“Everyone in our community deserves safe, quality, affordable housing,” said Geoff Jolley, LISC KC executive director. “If we are to begin to close the racial health, wealth, and opportunity gaps that exist, we must engage the region to work alongside our partners and residents to aggressively address housing needs.”