Iowa Finance Authority Grants $100K for Habitat Projects in Boone & Knoxville

March 2, 2025, Des Moines - The Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) Board of Directors has awarded $100,000 in grants from the State Housing Trust Fund to support Habitat for Humanity affiliates in Boone and Knoxville. The funds will be used to assist in the construction of affordable homes for local families through the State Housing Trust Fund’s Project-Based Housing Program.

“We are proud to support Heart of Iowa Habitat for Humanity and Habitat for Humanity of Marion County through the State Housing Trust Fund,” said IFA Director Debi Durham.

The grants will support two projects that aim to provide quality, affordable housing to families while contributing to the growth and stability of the Boone and Knoxville communities.

Heart of Iowa Habitat for Humanity, Boone - $50,000

Heart of Iowa Habitat for Humanity has received a $50,000 grant to help build a 1,280-square-foot home on an infill lot in Boone. This project, which also includes contributions from John Deere and US Bank, will benefit from donated labor from the Carpenter’s Club, a group of about 10 retired local carpenters who volunteer their time and skills annually to Habitat for Humanity home builds.

Habitat for Humanity of Marion County, Knoxville - $50,000

Habitat for Humanity of Marion County has also been awarded $50,000 to assist in the construction of a 1,200-square-foot single-family home on a vacant lot in Knoxville. The project is a collaboration with the Weiler Foundation and the Knoxville Community School District. Students from Knoxville High School’s Building Trades class will participate in the construction, gaining valuable hands-on experience in the construction industry while helping reduce project costs.

Both homes will be sold to income-qualified buyers, who will also receive financial, home repair, homeownership, and foreclosure prevention education. These buyers must complete a required number of sweat equity hours before closing on the homes.

Since its inception in 2003, the State Housing Trust Fund has awarded over $136.4 million, aiding more than 41,500 affordable housing units. These funds have leveraged an additional $187.5 million in other resources, creating $1.37 in additional funding for every dollar from the State Housing Trust Fund.

Originally reported by Iowa Economic Development & Finance Authority.