Published: October 26, 2009 08:06 pm         

Providence Housing Corp. receives federal funding for senior housing

TERRE HAUTE — Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman recently announced the recipients of $511,300 in federal HOME Investment Partnerships Program funding. Providence Housing Corp. in West Terre Haute will receive funding to develop affordable housing for senior Hoosiers. The Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority manages the HOME program.

“We are delighted today with the news of our HOME award,” said PHC President Sister Jenny Howard, SP. “This will assist us in Phase Five construction of 12 more low-income senior apartments at our Providence Housing Corporation site in West Terre Haute.”

It was particularly noteworthy to receive approval on that day because Oct. 22 marked the 169th anniversary of the arrival of St. Mother Theodore Guerin to her new home at St. Mary-of-the-Woods. Residents of the West Terre Haute area were gracious enough to provide housing for her and her companions upon their arrival. Providing safe, affordable housing for seniors is one way we can repay some of that extraordinary favor granted to our foundress,” Howard added.

HOME grants allow not-for-profit housing organizations to increase the number of affordable housing units they can complete. The program encourages community participation by requiring 25 percent of the funding to come from private or local contributions. The funding can be used to build or rehabilitate both single-family homes and rental units. To ensure the housing provided is affordable, HOME funding has strict guidelines on rent control and income eligibility limits.

“This award provides a much needed resource to our senior neighbors,” said Skillman. “Because of this organization, our aging Hoosiers will have more affordable housing options in their community.”