Programs

In an effort to assist the residents of the Lower West Side, Heart of the City has developed programs and housing initiatives that improve the quality of residential housing for all.

Home Ownership Provides Equity (H.O.P.E.) Program

The H.O.P.E. Program brings life back into vacant properties! These new homes in an 1890′s frame are ideal for first-time homebuyers who have limited capital for extensive home repairs, updates, and purchases.

Minor Home Repair Programs

Our Minor Home Repair Programs are designed to respond to the increasing costs of home repair and maintenance by equipping deserving residents with grants for home repairs and energy upgrades.

These neighborhood stabilizing programs target different demographics in our community, including seniors, physically disabled, developmentally disabled, and low-income families, known locally as Planning to Stay, Green & Healthy Homes, and Stable Homes.

Neighborhood Beautification

In conjunction with HOCN’s home rehabilitation and repair programs, the organization also promotes several neighborhood-wide community initiatives.

These programs include annual tree plants, planting flower bulbs, neighborhood clean ups and hosting community-wide socials, encouraging community engagement and creating pride for our streets.

Advocacy Work

As a bi-weekly Ellicott District Liaison at housing court hearings, HOCN is able to assist building strong communities and improve the quality of life within. Services include offering assistance to those who need help with minor home repair, acquiring properties that homeowners no longer wish to care for, and holding neglectful homeowners and landlords responsible for their damaging effects on the community.

Referral Services

In addition to on-going programs and active developments, HOCN offers a variety of services to assist home-owners, tenants, and potential first-time homebuyers. For more information, visit our Resources page. Have a question you can’t find an answer to on our Resources page? Call our office at (716) 882-7661. We’d be happy to assist you!