City awarded $1.4 million in federal housing grants

The City of Yuma has been awarded $1.4 million through the Lead Hazard Reduction (LHR) Grant and the Healthy Homes Grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The funding will expand the City's Housing Rehabilitation Program, allowing more homes to receive lead hazard reduction and healthy homes improvements.

"These grants represent a significant investment in the health and safety of Yuma residents," said Cynthia Blot, Assistant Director of Community Development, Neighborhood Services, and Economic Development. "By strengthening our Housing Rehabilitation Program, we can remove dangerous lead hazards, improve indoor air quality, and help ensure families - especially children - are living in safer, healthier homes. It is a direct investment in the long-term well-being of our community."

Many of the homes that may benefit from these improvements were built before 1978, when lead-based paint was commonly used in residential construction. Through the grant process, the City identified opportunities to address lead hazards and other housing-related health concerns, particularly for low- to moderate-income households.

The additional funding will allow the City to expand its current housing rehabilitation efforts and increase the number of homes eligible for assistance. Improvements will focus on lead hazard reduction, indoor environmental upgrades, and other health and safety improvements designed to create safer living conditions for residents, particularly families with children.

These improvements also advance broader community development goals. Safe and stable housing contributes to workforce stability, neighborhood revitalization, and the long-term economic health of the community.

Because strong neighborhoods are closely tied to economic growth, the City continues to focus on initiatives that strengthen both housing and economic opportunity. That work is further reinforced by the recent addition of Cindy Hostetler as the City's new Economic Development Manager. Her role focuses on business attraction, retention, and community-focused economic growth - efforts that are closely connected to strong, healthy neighborhoods.

Residents interested in participating in the City of Yuma's Housing Rehabilitation Program, including Lead Hazard Reduction and Healthy Homes services, may apply through the City's Neighborhood Services Division.

Eligible households must own and occupy the home as their primary residence, meet HUD income guidelines, live in a home built prior to 1978 for lead-related assistance, and be current on property taxes or enrolled in a payment plan.

For more information or to apply for the program, residents may visit yumaaz.gov/HousingRehabilitation or call the Neighborhood Services Division at 928-373-5187.