Key to Ownership

The Shelly Hill family stands on the front porch of their new home in Jackson

Ms. Shelly Hill became the first Michigan homebuyer to utilize the "Key to Own" program. On June 1, 2004 Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) along with the City of Jackson's Affordable Housing program held a kick-off event to celebrate their first joint new construction project. MSHDA also utilized its HUD funded HOME dollars as part of this venture along with participation from several volunteers, including Habitat for Humanity. The landscaping materials were donated through the Michigan Prison Build Program.

The "Key to Own" program offers a homeownership option for certain qualified families that hold a HUD Housing Choice Voucher from MSHDA. Tenants who meet program requirements will be able to use their voucher subsidy toward a mortgage on a home rather than toward their rent.

Louis M. Berra, Field Office Director at the Grand Rapids HUD office participated in the commemorative event, which began the celebration of homeownership month in Michigan.