Michael Bushnell
Northeast News

KANSAS CITY – Five Kansas City urban core neighborhoods are eligible to apply for funds for minor home repair thanks to an almost $500,000 grant from the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) of Des Moines.

Eligible neighborhoods include North Blue Ridge, Sheffield, Blue Valley, and McCoy Park. Repairs include roof replacement, siding, painting, doors, windows and concrete. Homeowners accepted by the program must agree to abide by FHLB requirements and meet Housing and Urban Development (HUD) low-income guidelines.

Applicants must meet residency requirements for the program as well, including living in the targeted neighborhoods.

“These areas were chosen because they’ve been largely underserved prior to now,” said John Baccala, spokesperson for the city’s Neighborhoods and Housing Services Department.  “This should make some very positive impacts in those four communities.”

According to Sheffield Neighborhood Association President Mark Morales, engagement is key.

“We’re going to start putting the word out to make sure we get as many eligible homeowners connected with this resource,” said Morales. “This is going to be a big benefit to our community.”

Homeowners interested in applying for the grant can call the City at (816) 513-3200. The program runs through November 2020 or until funding runs out.