COLUMBUS – Habitat for Humanity of Richland & Crawford Counties represents two of 57 counties receiving state grants to help Ohioans in more communities achieve the dream of homeownership.
In total, $26.9 million is being awarded to support the creation of 246 homes across the state.
The funding comes from the latest round of the Welcome Home Ohio program, which was passed by the Ohio General Assembly in the state’s biennium budget bill and signed by Gov. Mike DeWine last year.
“Whether it’s supporting workforce needs, attracting new residents to Ohio, or helping longtime residents stay in the communities they love, housing matters,” DeWine said.
“The projects we support through Welcome Home Ohio create safe and affordable housing options for families today, while building momentum for future generations to live their very best lives.”
The program provides grants for both the purchase of qualifying residential properties at foreclosure sales and for the rehabilitation or construction of homes. Land banks, county land reutilization corporations, electing subdivisions, and qualified nonprofit developers are eligible to apply.
Additionally, $20 million in non-refundable tax credits are available through the biennium to help land banks, county land reutilization corporations, electing subdivisions, and eligible developers complete qualifying rehabs and new construction once a property is sold.
Tax credit applications are currently being accepted on a rolling basis until all funds are expended.
This award will support Habitat for Humanity of Richland & Crawford Counties with the construction of two of the four new builds slated for completion by the end of 2027.
This award builds on Habitat for Humanity of Richland and Crawford Counties’ continued investment in affordable homeownership opportunities across its two-county service area.
In addition to Welcome Home Ohio funding, the organization has received generous local support from community partners and foundations, including the Richland County Foundation and The Community Foundation for Crawford County to help advance new construction, homeowner education, and long-term housing stability for local families.
Since its inception, Welcome Home Ohio has awarded nearly $86 million to support the creation of 727 homes in 63 counties.
“Every property restored through Welcome Home Ohio represents exciting new potential for a neighborhood, and the people who call it home,” Mihalik said. “These investments are helping our local partners create housing solutions that meet today’s needs while preparing for tomorrow’s growth.”
“Housing is foundational to family stability, workforce growth, and the long-term health of our communities,” said Aubri Them, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Richland and Crawford Counties.
“This award helps us continue moving from vision to construction as we work to complete four new homes by the end of 2027. We are proud to be part of this statewide investment in affordable homeownership and grateful for the opportunity to bring that impact home to Richland and Crawford Counties.”
The Ohio Department of Development empowers communities to succeed by investing in Ohio’s people, places, and businesses. Learn more about our work at development.ohio.gov.
Habitat for Humanity of Richland and Crawford Counties is a nonprofit housing organization dedicated to building strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter.
Serving Richland and Crawford Counties, the organization partners with individuals, families, volunteers, donors, and community organizations to create affordable homeownership opportunities, support critical home repairs, and strengthen neighborhoods through safe, stable housing.