One southwest Michigan community and one local nonprofit have received a boost in government funding.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) have launched the Michigan Housing Opportunities Promoting Energy Efficiency (MI-HOPE) program, awarding $10 million to local governments and nonprofit organizations throughout the state for energy-efficiency focused housing repairs and upgrades.
The Village of Cassopolis received $300,000 from the program, while the Southwest Michigan Community Action Agency received $500,000.
“The MI-HOPE program will invoke positive change and improve living conditions for Michiganders across the state,” said Tonya Joy, Neighborhood Housing Initiatives Division director. “Making energy-efficient home repairs will help people save money on costs like heating and cooling, giving them more breathing room to put food on the table, purchase school supplies for their kids and many other necessary home and lifestyle purchases.”
MI-HOPE, a program to help local governments and nonprofits improve local housing, lower energy costs for families, and reduce their community’s carbon footprint, will provide up to $28.5 million statewide through competitive funding rounds.
The program uses federal funds from the American Rescue Plan to help homeowners undertake repairs and upgrades to enhance energy efficiency. Eligible assisted activities include roof repair or replacement, insulation, modification or replacement of heating/cooling systems and more.
“We are taking action to lower energy costs for Michiganders by funding $10 million of home repairs and energy-efficiency upgrades,” said Governor Whitmer. “The MI-HOPE program puts more money in Michiganders’ pockets, revitalizes housing, and helps our state meet its clean energy goals. The repairs and upgrades funded by this program can be used on a wide range of home changes, including roof repair, insulation, or heating/cooling system installation. Let’s keep working together to lower costs and make our homes more comfortable and efficient.”
Applications are still being accepted for the second round of funding, to be announced in spring 2023. All MI-HOPE program-financed activities will provide specific and necessary health and safety improvements to existing structures. 501(c) nonprofit agencies and local governments are eligible to apply for MI-HOPE assistance, with award determinations based on competitive funding rounds and subsequent obligation and expenditure performance.
For more details and to apply please click here. Calls to 211 will direct interested applicants to the proper servicing agency for their area.
