A house being rehabbed on N.Fairmount St.
East Liberty Development Inc. (ELDI) in partnership with the Bloomfield Garfield Corporation and Open Hand Ministries are hard at work rehabbing eight houses as a part of the Garfield Affordable Homeownership Project. ELDI was awarded grant funds through the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) to assist with construction and subsidies for future homeowners. First Commonwealth Bank is the Member Bank that also helped with grant funds and a construction loan.
This project is a response to the lack of affordable housing and the threat of displacement for residents in Garfield, which, like much of Pittsburgh, is developing rapidly. Garfield’s turn-of-the-century homes require extensive renovations, including the modernization of plumbing, electrical and HVAC systems, making the purchase and repair of these homes out of reach for many residents.
This project will result in the rehabilitation and resale of eight homes, all to homeowners who are at 80% or below of the Area Median Income. Additionally, four homes will be reserved for homebuyers with disabilities or a history of domestic violence or substance abuse. The first house, a formerly vacant house on N. Fairmount Street, is nearly complete and will soon see a new homeowner and her family enjoying the house, yard and neighborhood!
To enhance the project’s success, ELDI has engaged long-time partner Open Hand Ministries, a Garfield-focused ministry and contractor, as well as Circles Greater Pittsburgh, an organization that identifies qualified low-income families and helps prepare them for homeownership.
> Recently, the fraternity brothers of Pi Kappa Alpha lent a hand to help with the demolition of three of these vacant houses. Read more about that.