PENNSYLVANIA — In a significant move to improve housing availability and affordability in Pennsylvania, Senator Vincent Hughes, Senate Democratic Appropriations Chair, and the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA) announced the 2023-24 Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement (PHARE) grant fund on Monday. With over $65 million available in the latest round of funding, this marks the largest increase in affordable housing investments in the state’s history.
The PHARE grant application period is now open and will run until November 17th at 2 PM. Non-profits and development organizations are being actively encouraged to apply.
Senators Vincent Hughes, Haywood, and other Senate Democrats advocated for the $65 million PHARE funds, leading to an unprecedented increase in budget allocations for affordable housing investments. Over the past six years, the PHARE grant fund has seen an additional allocation of $45 million, showcasing the state’s commitment to combating housing issues.
Senator Hughes explained, “This PHARE grant money can be used in a variety of ways to support affordable housing throughout Pennsylvania. We’ve seen organizations use funds to repair homes, remove lead paint, and provide financial and housing counseling. It’s important for folks to know $65 million dollars is available to support our affordable housing stock and the application period is open.”
Senator Hughes made the announcement alongside Robin Wiessmann, the Executive Director and CEO of PHFA, Corinne O’Connell, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia, and a spokesperson from Representative Morgan Cephas’ office. The location chosen for the announcement was symbolic – a house previously repaired by Habitat for Humanity using PHARE funds, standing as a testament to the tangible impact of these grants.
The PHARE grant fund serves as a beacon of hope for individuals and families struggling with housing affordability. By providing much-needed financial support to non-profit and development organizations, the grant enables them to undertake significant housing repair and rehabilitation work. The commitment of Pennsylvania’s Senate Democrats to securing this funding is a clear demonstration of the state’s dedication to ensuring safe and affordable housing for all its residents.
More information about the grant program can be found online.
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