Small Cities Development Program (SCDP):

This program provides financial assistance for low to moderate income individuals who are residing in substandard housing. This program also encourages the improvement of the general appearance and value of the housing stock while making a visible and substantial improvement upon the quality of life and appearance of the community. Small Cities Development program also offers financial assistance to commercial and rental property owners. This program can provide upgrades to properties, helping them to meet code requirements and design standards.
**SCDP Grants are awarded annually to cities who have submitted applications.**

Energy Assistance Program (EAP):

The Energy Assistance Program of Western Community Action, Inc. provides home heating assistance, crisis prevention, energy-related repairs, energy conservation, emergency assistance and referrals to other programs and services. Household eligibility and assistance amounts are based on both income and actual home heating costs. This program can also assist homeowners with setting up supplier payment plans.

To be eligible, total household income must fall below 50% of the state median income. Applicants with the lowest incomes and highest heating expense receive the largest grants which can range from 15-75% of home heating bills.

In addition to paying part of the home heating bills, this program can assist homeowners with heating system repairs and replacements. Program Staff can assist in setting up budget payment plans with energy suppliers, provide energy conservation education and information, and make referrals to many housing and energy services.

Weatherization (WX):

Any persons who qualify for EAP, qualify for weatherization. Homes are weatherized according to priority household needs. This is a process of making the home more energy efficient through means of diagnostic testing. This testing will determine if your home has the required amount of insulation, if your furnace is operating properly, along with the water heater. If it is determined your furnace is not working properly, and can not be repaired simply, a new furnace may be installed, at no expense to you.

Rehabilitation / Accessibility Loan:

This is a deferred loan with no interest or monthly payments until such a time you sell, transfer or move from the property. On 30th year this deffered loan is due and payable.

Community Fix Up Fund (CFUF):

A community Fix-Up Fund is a low-interest loan program for Homeowners for your home improvement needs. This program is designed for those homeowners who have less than perfect credit. The interest rate is determined according to household income and credit rating.

The above mentioned loans may be used for accessibility modifications.

Loans offered by Minnesota Housing Finance Agency (MHFA) and administered by Western Community Action, Inc.

Minnesota Urban and Rural Homesteading Program (MURL):

This program provides home ownership opportunities for "At Risk" first time home buyers in certain cities. With funding provided by the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency, Western Community Action, Inc. will purchase homes to be rehabilitated and sold to qualifying buyers. The home buyer will purchase the home on a Contract for Deed for a term not to exceed 30 years and with a 0% interest rate. The buyer will make monthly payments (equal to 25% of their total household gross income) and will receive the legal title to the property when the debt is paid off.

Western Community Action, Inc. Housing can help you rehab your house.

Related Links:
Locations
Minnesota Housing Finance Agency
Minnesota Department of Commerce - Heating Assistance
HUD

Please E-mail: sarah.schlemmer@wcainc.org for additional information.