Housing Center

Way Finders serves as the regional Housing Consumer Education Center (HCEC) for Hampden and Hampshire counties and administers emergency financial assistance programs such a Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT), Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) and other municipal assistance programs. These programs are designed for renters and homeowners of all household sizes to help prevent homelessness.

Way Finders' METAR team found stable housing for 107 families and individuals with an overall average of $4,000 per household provided for rehousing. 46% of households were placed in market rate apartments and the remainder found subsidized housing.

Ivelisse, who endured domestic violence, multiple threats of eviction, dependence on emergency assistance programs and a house fire that left her and her two kids homeless less than one year ago, now purchased her first home.  This is her story, in her own words:

“To be honest, never in my wildest dreams would I think a single mother of two working two jobs could be in this position. But when I promised my son on Christmas morning that I would buy him and his baby sister a house, I planned to keep that promise regardless of the obstacles I faced. 

What’s More is Less.

It’s fall in New England which brings cooler temperatures and is quickly followed by the cold New England winter.

Home Modification Loan Program (HMLP) is a state funded program that helps Massachusetts residents live more independently at home.

HMLP provides 0% interest loans in amounts between $1,000 and $50,000 to homeowners and small landlords for modifications to the primary, permanent residence of elders, individuals with disabilities, and families of children with disabilities. 

These loans allow homeowners in Massachusetts to remain in their home and must specifically relate to a person in the household’s ability to function on a daily basis. 
 

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts awarded Way Finders a grant to provide HiSET (High School Equivalency Test) preparation classes to 15 participants in their stabilization and shelter programs, free of charge.

The Get the Lead Out Program is designed to provide low-cost financing to owners of 1-4 family properties to remove hazardous lead paint from their homes and reduce the possibility of lead poisoning in children. MassHousing is the administrating agency for this program and funding is provided by a state appropriation. Participating agencies include: Department of Housing and Community Development, Department of Public Health and Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program.

Way Finders' Homeownership and Financial Education Department offers Financial Assistance programs to help you purchase or modify your home.