By Kristin Freehill—
MUNCIE, IN—Greater Muncie Habitat for Humanity has been awarded a $1 million grant from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis through its Affordable Housing Program. This funding will support the construction of 10 new homes in Muncie over the next three years, providing safe and affordable homeownership opportunities for local families.
Muncie Habitat partnered with member bank institution, Old National Bank, for development of the competitive grant application. In addition, Old National Bank will support the project with grant funding, a construction line of credit, and oversight of project reporting and administration with Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis.
Housing projects include eight new homes in the Industry neighborhood, and two new homes in the South Centralneighborhood. Seven of the properties were secured through the Muncie Land Bank, which facilitated their transfer to Muncie Habitat for Humanity to advance this initiative.
“We are thrilled to be partnering with Federal Home Loan Bank, Old National Bank, and neighborhood residents,” said Muncie Habitat CEO Lindsey Arthur. “This grant will be impactful in building our capacity to serve even more families in the coming years. We know that homeownership is key to stabilizing neighborhoods and that safe, affordable housing is integral to the stability of families.”
As construction progresses, Muncie Habitat will share details on homeownership applications through its website and Facebook page to ensure interested families have access to information and opportunities.
To meet the increased demand for construction over the next three years, Muncie Habitat is calling on volunteers to join its efforts. “It’s fun to volunteer at Muncie Habitat,” said Arthur. “We hope that people will get involved and schedule their groups now!”
Volunteer opportunities will be available on Fridays and Saturdays throughout the year.
About Greater Muncie Habitat for Humanity
Greater Muncie Habitat for Humanity partners with families in their journey towards stable housing meant to last a lifetime. The impact of a Habitat for Humanity home extends beyond the lives of Habitat’s partner families; it also has a positive effect on the entire neighborhood. Through focused efforts, in partnership with funders, other organizations, volunteers and residents, Muncie Habitat has witnessed an increase in property value, a decrease in vacancy rates, and the arrival of new families who take pride in their community. Since its inception in 1986, Muncie Habitat for Humanity has provided new and improved housing opportunities for nearly 300 families. Consider supporting the mission of Muncie Habitat by visiting http://www.munciehabitat.org/donate.
Kristin Freehill is Director of Community Engagement, Muncie Habitat for Humanity.