Small homeowners in Haiti now have the opportunity to repair their homes with a new initiative.
The Little Haiti Revitalization Trust said the $500,000 program is intended to combat gentrification.
Joann Milord, president and CEO of the Little Haiti Revitalization Trust, said some homeowners may sell their homes if they lack the capital to repair their roof, plumbing or electrical systems.
The program offers up to $50,000 per household for single-family or semi-detached homes. The principle is first come, first served and so far two applicants have been accepted. Homeowners can request an application at this email: [email protected]
The target group is low- to middle-income homeowners who have been excluded from the home tax exemption for at least five years at the time of application. The requirements include an income of up to 140% of the average median income.
Miami's Community Housing and Development Department will handle the actual home repairs. Milord said an assessment of the property will determine need.
“The focus is on improving people’s quality of life. So they take care of things like plumbing, electrical, roof, windows and doors,” she said.
The city selects the contractor for the repairs.
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Little Haiti has become more vulnerable to gentrification as property values in Miami have increased significantly.
“This is an attempt to help the residents who live there, the homeowners, maintain their property and provide safe, sanitary conditions,” Milord said.
BIILY JEAN LOUIS is senior editor of the Key Biscayne Independent. Jean Louis is from Port Au Prince, Haiti and has worked for Bloomberg and the Baltimore Sun. He is a corps member Report for America