Oregon Realtors help home ownership program

Thanks a to a $5,000 grant from the Oregon Association of Realtors Home Foundation, NeighborImpact can assist more families in Central Oregon realize the dream of homeownership.

This competitive grant award comes at a perfect time because the home-buying season is just around the corner.

“We are thrilled to receive this grant from great community partners,” says Lynne McConnell, associate director of HomeSource and assets. “This is a natural partnership between our two organizations in serving the needs of first-time home buyers in Central Oregon.”

NeighborImpact’s HomeSource department is focused on helping families and individuals plan, purchase, and preserve home ownership. There is a full spectrum of services to promote home ownership including workshops, one-on-one coaching, matched savings, down payment assistance, and access to lending products, weatherization, and other services.

In 2014, HomeSource facilitated the purchase of 51 homes in Central Oregon, leading to over $8 million in local real estate sales. And nearly 200 homes were saved from going through foreclosure or falling in to disrepair.

“We provide services that are responsive to community needs and enable residents to create tangible assets and build their own financial foundation,” explains McConnell.

McConnell says the primary goal is to offer a variety of classes, programs and services to help underserved Central Oregon residents strengthen their household finances, build financial assets, and acquire, maintain, and sustain homeownership.

About NeighborImpact: Since 1985, NeighborImpact has been a leader in developing solutions and bringing resources to Crook, Jefferson and Deschutes County. The agency offers a diversity of services meeting basic human needs for food and shelter, while enriching people’s lives by providing access to increased education, skills, and hope for the future. NeighborImpact is a private nonprofit organization that receives federal, state and local funding; foundation grants; and donations from individuals and businesses in our community. To learn more about NeighborImpact please visit www.neighborimpact.org. #

NeighborImpact is a “21 Cares for Kids” partner.