The Norfolk, Nebraska Area Habitat for Humanity (NAHFH) wanted to expand the impact of its home construction program, and get a more immediate return on investment so it could help the greatest number of people in need. USDA Rural Development was the agency NAHFH felt was best met that need.
NAHFH utilized a community revitalization grant administered by the Northeast Nebraska Economic Development District (NENEDD), managed by Northeast Economic Development, Inc. (NED, Inc.) to demolish the dilapidated property that previously existed on the lot site. The new construction was completed through donations of supplies and expertise, sweat equity and primarily through the building trades program at Northeast Community College.
USDA Rural Development worked with Donald Parkos, the potential homebuyer, throughout the application process. USDA Rural Development provided the first mortgage for him to purchase the home. In addition to this, Parkos received down payment assistance. Through the hard work of a number of partners, Donald was able to afford a newly built home for less than $100,000. Today he resides in his 1,100 square foot, two bedroom, one bath home.
The partnership had an impact far beyond that of just homeownership. The process helped revitalize a neighborhood by placing a nice, newly built home where a dilapidated structure once stood. It also helped create a sense of community and ownership in the neighborhood by all involved.
USDA Rural Development and Norfolk Area Habitat for Humanity have closed on another loan and potential applicants are in the works.
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