More than 20 workshops are scheduled over the next month to help prospective applicants understand the Dallas home-repair program that will begin accepting applications in late August.
The Home Improvement & Preservation Program (HIPP) comprises three home-repair grants, one of which is the Major-Systems Repair Program (MSRP). MSRP provides up to $24,000 in interest-free, “forgivable” taxpayer-funded loans to help residents repair or replace HVAC systems, complete electrical or plumbing work, and improve accessibility.
The application period for MSRP grants is open from August 19-30, and the schedule for the workshops led by the Department of Housing & Neighborhood Revitalization can be found here. Most take place in city facilities, but some are virtual.
“Leading up to applications opening, Housing Department staff are hosting engagement workshops to help residents complete their applications,” according to a news release. “Engagement workshops … continue through August 16, 2024.”
The MSRP includes roofing, exterior cladding, structural modifications, testing and removal of lead-based paint and asbestos hazards, tree trimming only if “necessary,” and demolition of accessory structures deemed hazardous.
To qualify for assistance, applicants must meet residency and other requirements, including having an annual household income at or below 80% of the area median income.
Three workshops were already held earlier this week. Others in the immediate future are planned for:
- Thursday — MLK Library, 11 a.m.
- Thursday — West Dallas Multipurpose Center, 6 p.m.
- Friday — North Oak Cliff Library, 12 p.m.
- Saturday — Virtual, 10 a.m.
Other HIPP assistance programs administered by the Department of Housing & Neighborhood Revitalization include “Emergency Home Rehabilitation” and “Dallas Tomorrow Fund.” The former provides up to $10,000 in grants, and the latter offers up to $20,000 in grants.
The 2023-24 budget for the Department of Housing & Neighborhood Revitalization is $6.9 million. Its planned budget for 2024-25 is $5 million. The department is “charged with investing in the development and preservation of mixed-income housing” using federal and local taxpayer dollars and bond revenue.