181 Detroit Families Gain Homeownership Through “Make It Home”

BREAKING: A major boost for homeownership in Detroit has been confirmed, with 181 families set to become homeowners this year through the expanded “Make It Home” initiative. Announced earlier today by the Rocket Community Fund, Mayor Mike Duggan, and the United Community Housing Coalition, this program utilizes the city’s “right of refusal” to purchase properties before they are lost to tax foreclosure auctions.

Since its inception in 2017, the “Make It Home” initiative has successfully transitioned over 1,700 families from renting to owning, providing 0% interest land contracts tailored to meet the financial circumstances of low-income households. This is not just about housing; it’s about empowering families and fostering community engagement.

Laura Grannemann, Executive Director of the Rocket Community Fund, emphasized the program’s significance, stating,

“We’re not just helping families stay in their homes; we’re empowering them with the resources and stability to invest even more deeply in their communities.”

The initiative also addresses critical home repairs through a program launched in 2019, which has allocated 4.75 million USD in grants and low-interest loans for essential improvements on 580 homes. This comprehensive approach ensures that families not only secure homes but also maintain them effectively.

The urgency of increasing homeownership opportunities in Detroit is echoed by Ted Phillips, Executive Director of the United Community Housing Coalition. He remarked,

“The need for creating more homeownership opportunities for low-income Detroit households is more crucial than ever right now as funding reductions limit housing opportunities.”

The “Make It Home” initiative is a collaborative effort between the Rocket Community Fund, United Community Housing Coalition, and city officials, combining resources to provide not only homeownership opportunities but also necessary support for maintenance and repairs.

With these developments, the program stands as a beacon of hope for many families striving for stability in Detroit. This expansion will allow for greater investment in the community and enhance the quality of life for its residents.

As this initiative moves forward, the focus remains on what comes next. Families interested in the program are encouraged to seek out information provided by the Rocket Community Fund and United Community Housing Coalition to take full advantage of these life-changing opportunities.

Stay tuned for more updates as these families embark on their journey to homeownership.