FHCCI announces funding through fair housing settlement
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Following an investigation of the maintenance and marketing of real estate-owned properties in Indianapolis, Fair Housing Center of Central Indiana has announced plans to award grant funding for Indianapolis neighborhoods of color impacted by foreclosure.
The FHCCI joined other fair housing organizations in four nationwide cases alleging specific lenders cared for REO homes in predominantly white neighborhoods differently than those in neighborhoods of color. In February, a case filed against Fannie Mae reached a settlement, which included grant funding to be administered by the FHCCI.
“Indianapolis neighborhoods of color were disproportionately affected by foreclosure and disinvestment following the foreclosure crisis,” said Amy Nelson, executive director of the FHCCI. “Due to the FHCCI’s investigation, we were able to ensure that Indianapolis was included in this national settlement which provides funding to organizations and individuals to assist in addressing the many housing barriers impacting our neighborhoods and/or with activities to challenge displacement of long-term homeowners.”
In Phase I of distribution of the funds, the FHCCI says it is awarding $350,000 to three area nonprofits: Martindale Brightwood Community Development Corp., Family Promise of Greater Indianapolis, and NeighborLink Indianapolis.
The MBCDC, which is receiving $150,000, will use the funds for new low-income housing projects, while FPGI will use its $100,000 grant to secure safe shelter apartments for area families at need. NeighborLink, which will receive $100,000, plans to help low-income seniors and individuals with disabilities who own their own homes age in place.
The FHCCI is also planning a Phase II for funding, and is seeking Requests For Proposals for distribution of additional funds from the settlement. The organization says funding will be awarded for projects that invest in Indy neighborhoods of color, foster homeownership, and promote diverse, inclusive communities.
Grant applications must be submitted by July 15. You can connect to more information by clicking here.