The HCRI grant, used as a revolving loan fund, supplies an immediate source of security deposits, first and last months' rent and assistance to tenants in bringing their utility bills up to date. All other funds are repayable at zero interest, with flexible terms designed to accommodate each family's financial circumstances. The South Community Organization, Inc.'s Self Help Housing Program is a housing rehabilitation and homeownership program that enables low-income homebuyers to reduce down payment requirements, earning sweat equity through self help labor. Applying the successful self help model used throughout rural Wisconsin to an urban environment, the organization helps families' purchase rehabilitated or newly constructed houses. The program serves low-income, larger families that are effectively priced out of segments of the housing market.
Families receive technical assistance and training and homeownership counseling.
In addition, the program has trained families to maintain and repair their properties, and many of the participants have learned new skills and been able to find better jobs in the building trades. Collaborative Institute Wisconsin Helps People with Disabilities Buy Homes Milwaukee. While homeownership overall in Wisconsin is 70 percent, the National Home of Your Own Alliance estimates that less than 5 percent of those receiving Social Security disability benefits are homeowners. This project enables people with disabilities to access mortgage products specifically designed for them. In addition, two collaborative members, the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority and Fannie Mae, expanded flexibilities within mortgage underwriting guidelines to qualify credit-worthy homebuyers with disabilities.