The 2025 City of Lawrence HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) invites applications from nonprofit and for-profit organizations for projects that expand affordable housing options. Approximately $430,000 in funding is anticipated for this program year, though final amounts will depend on federal budget allocations expected in March 2025. Funded projects will run from August 1, 2025, to July 31, 2026, aligning with the goals of the City’s 2023-2027 Consolidated Plan.
Eligible activities include acquisition, construction, and rehabilitation of affordable housing, tenant-based rental assistance, and operating expenses for Community Housing Development Organizations (CHDOs). Housing supported by HOME funds must meet affordability standards, be transitional or permanent, and comply with HUD property standards upon completion. Additionally, at least 15% of the annual allocation must support projects by CHDOs. Applicants must ensure that every dollar of HOME funding is matched with at least $0.25 from non-federal sources, although exceptions may apply in cases of declared disasters or economic distress.
Applications must be submitted electronically in Microsoft Word or PDF format by 5:00 PM on January 31, 2025. Proposals should include detailed project narratives and budgets using the provided templates. Applicants should outline their project’s alignment with city priorities, such as addressing unmet housing needs, providing long-term affordability, and offering clear measurable outcomes. Funds are distributed competitively based on criteria like scope, budget soundness, alignment with city goals, and capacity to implement.
Selected projects must comply with various federal and city requirements, including environmental reviews, non-discrimination policies, and accessibility standards. Approved grantees will execute a funding agreement with the city, specifying reporting and compliance expectations. Funds may not be used for costs incurred before agreement execution.
The Affordable Housing Advisory Board (AHAB) reviews and scores applications before recommending funding allocations to the City Commission. Final decisions are incorporated into the annual Action Plan submitted to HUD, with funds becoming available after August 2025. Applicants are encouraged to contact city staff for assistance with eligibility questions or technical support during the application process.
