We are dedicated to improving the physical, social and economic conditions in our community. To reach this goal the City of Williamsport, using two Federal funding sources, has developed the various programs and activities described below.
Community Development Block Grant Program
The City of Williamsport receives Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The objective of the CDBG Program is "development of viable communities, by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment, and expanding economic opportunities, principally for low and moderate income persons." HUD regulations define low-and moderate-income as earning less than 80% of the area median income adjusted for household size.
CDBG funds a variety of City housing and community activities. These include:
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Affordable Housing Activities
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Public Facility and infrastructure improvements
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Accessibility Improvements
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Assisting Homeless Shelters
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Improving Recreation Facilities
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And other Public Services
General Guidelines and Eligibility
A CDBG project must meet one of three national objectives:
- Benefit Low-and Moderate-Income Persons
- Aid in the Prevention or Elimination of Slums or Blight
- Meet an Extremely Urgent Community Need
Federal regulations require at least 70% of CDBG funds be used for projects that demonstrably benefit low- and moderate-income persons.
Contact the Community Development Office for national objective criteria.
How to Apply
Non-Profit 501(C)(3) organizations may request applications for funding during August.
The HOME Program
The HOME Program is a Federal effort to provide decent, safe and affordable housing to all Americans, and to alleviate the problems of excessive rent burdens, homelessness and deteriorating housing stock. The HOME Program was created under the National Affordable Housing Act of 1990. It provides funding to local governments for affordable housing strategies that address local needs. This includes:
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Expanding the supply of decent and affordable housing for lower income residents.
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Strengthening the ability of local governments to provide adequate affordable housing.
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Developing partnerships between government and the private sector, including non-profits and for-profits, to produce affordable housing.
The City also reserves HOME funds for housing developed by a Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO). A CHDO is a private, non-profit organization that has a primary purpose of providing decent, affordable housing to lower income households. The City has three CHDO's, Habitat for Humanity, STEP and Lycoming Neighborhood Development Corporation (LNDC)
How to Apply
Organizations may request applications for HOME funding in August. All activities must meet funding guidelines and be consistent with the goals and objectives of the City of Williamsport’s Consolidated Plan.
For more information about Community & Economic Development programs travel to the links below or contact our office at 570-327-7511