EXTON, PA — Citadel Credit Union has officially launched its Home Help Program, a new initiative designed to boost homeownership opportunities in Philadelphia’s majority-Black and Hispanic neighborhoods. The program offers up to $18,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance for eligible homebuyers, representing a major investment in affordable housing and financial equity.
Backed by a $6 million loan subsidy fund, the Home Help Program is part of Citadel’s broader effort to expand access to mortgage, refinance, and home improvement financing in underserved communities. The initiative aims to support long-term financial stability and generational wealth-building for residents across Philadelphia County.
“Home Help is dedicated to serving the Philadelphia community by helping more residents achieve the dream of homeownership,” said Lisa Albany, Vice President of Real Estate at Citadel Credit Union. “Through targeted grants and assistance programs, we’re making homeownership more accessible and affordable, helping individuals build stronger futures and contributing to the long-term strength of our neighborhoods.”
During its soft launch earlier this summer, the program awarded $134,000 in grants, helping finance $1.6 million in home purchases. With the official rollout now underway, Citadel plans to expand outreach significantly, including a new branch opening in Philadelphia in early 2026.
Program Details
The Home Help Program is available for owner-occupied single-family homes, condominiums, and planned unit developments located in eligible majority-minority neighborhoods. Borrowers do not need to be first-time homebuyers, and the assistance can be used for new home purchases, rate-term refinancing, or property improvements.
Key features include:
- Up to $18,000 in grant assistance
- Availability across a range of Citadel mortgage products
- Eligibility for pairing with additional grants, seller credits, or subordinate financing
- Open access to qualified borrowers, regardless of first-time buyer status
The program is aimed squarely at closing homeownership gaps and expanding financial opportunity in historically underserved communities.
New Leadership for Community Lending
To lead the initiative, Citadel has appointed Evan Richman as its new Community Lending Officer. Richman brings more than 15 years of experience in mortgage lending and community outreach, and will act as a direct link between Citadel and Philadelphia neighborhoods.
“Having spent my career helping families navigate the path to homeownership, I know how life-changing it can be,” Richman said. “At Citadel, I’m focused on building relationships in majority-minority communities, connecting residents with resources, and leading outreach initiatives that turn financial education into action.”
Richman will partner with local officials, housing advocates, and real estate professionals to expand awareness and engagement, including collaboration with organizations such as the Affordable Housing Centers of Pennsylvania and the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals.
Expanding Community Partnerships
Citadel’s launch of Home Help builds on its existing partnerships with a network of Philadelphia-based nonprofits and housing organizations, including:
- Women’s Opportunities Resource Center
- Urban Affairs Coalition
- Urban League of Philadelphia
- Philadelphia Housing Development Corporation
- Rebuilding Together Philadelphia
These alliances are central to Citadel’s strategy of combining financial education with practical support to promote homeownership and economic mobility.
A regional marketing campaign using digital outreach, direct mail, in-branch promotions, and community events is underway to boost program visibility throughout 2025.
By committing $6 million to community lending and embedding experienced leadership into its outreach strategy, Citadel is positioning itself as a key player in the push for more equitable access to homeownership in Philadelphia.
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