Harkins, Merski: $400,000 awarded to bolster availability of safe, affordable housing
Rep. Robert Merski December 2, 2024
ERIE, Dec. 2 – Grant awards totaling $400,000 have been awarded to Erie County with a focus on ensuring residents have access to safe, affordable housing, state Reps. Pat Harkins and Bob Merski, both D-Erie, announced today.
The grants were awarded through the Department of Community and Economic Development’s HOME Investment Partnerships Program and will be earmarked to support municipalities’ work to rehabilitate low-income, owner-occupied homes in eight counties.
"The persistent lack of affordable housing is a serious issue for Pennsylvania’s low-income households. Too many families are forced to spend over half of their income on rent, leaving little for groceries, prescriptions and other essentials," Harkins said. "Securing this funding is crucial for expanding housing options and providing livable, sustainable choices for families."
Merski said, "The allocation of these funds is a testament to our ongoing efforts to prioritize the well-being of our constituents. We understand the critical role that stable housing plays in the overall health and prosperity of our community. This grant will enable us to implement much-needed housing projects that will benefit countless families and individuals."
HOME is a federally funded program that provides municipalities with grant and loan assistance to increase and preserve the supply of affordable housing for low- and very low-income Pennsylvanians.