Representative Palm Applauds Grant Funding for the Deep River Housing Authority
November 3, 2023
The Housing Advisory Panel recently voted to approve one-time grant funding awards as part of the Interest on Real Estate Brokers Trust Account (IOREBTA) Program, which includes $10,000 for the Deep River Housing Authority.
IOREBTA Program funds annually support appraisal gap financing for first-time homebuyers, development of affordable housing projects, counseling for low- and moderate-income homebuyers, and second mortgage down payment assistance when the Down Payment Assistance Program (DAP) Loan was suspended. The IOREBTA Program has also funded the purchase of mortgages from Connecticut chapters of Habitat for Humanity and other housing subsidies. This year's grant awards include help for intellectual and developmental disability (IDD) and Veterans' housing, low-income and affordable housing, and homelessness assistance and prevention programs.
The Deep River Housing Authority plans to use the funds to begin replacing outdated bathtubs that don't accommodate today's shower chairs.
"I cannot tell you how much it means to receive this funding," said Deep River Housing Authority Executive Director Joann Hourigan. "This is a project that we have wanted to start for some time, but unfortunately, it keeps getting pushed back due to other priorities. This funding will allow us to at least start in two handicap units that will then be the model for the other 24 units that need the same upgrade. We will be looking for additional funding for those in the future, however, this allows the process to start. The tenants occupying the two units receiving this upgrade are thrilled as the current tubs make it difficult to use a shower chair." Hourigan added, "We are very grateful in Deep River!"
"Safe, affordable housing is a human right," said State Rep. Christine Palm (D-Chester, Deep River, Essex, Haddam). "I am grateful to Housing Committee Chair Rep. Luxenberg. These grants, while far from the largest the State gives, have an enormous impact - there's nothing more important than safeguarding our seniors."
State Representative Geoff Luxenberg (D-Manchester), Co-Chair of the Housing Committee and the Housing Advisory Panel, added that "Rep. Palm advocated for this money to help Deep River Housing Authority and that's why it received this grant award because of her leadership and dedication to the community."
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