Ribbon Cutting for First Homes

In June the Central Iowa Community Land Trust (CICLT) had a ribbon cutting for the three homes in the Columbus Park neighborhood and Oak Park / Highland neighborhood that have entered the CICLT market.

These three homes are made to stay affordable permanently and create opportunities for homeownership. This is possible because the CICLT owns that land and the homeowner own the home. By doing this the home will be able to stay affordable permanently.

These homes were built in partnership with Invest DSM, City of Des Moines and Home, Inc. The three homes are a huge development towards permanent affordable housing! Showcasing that homeownership can be achievable for those who would not have had the chance.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4BgUL8uYTCY

The CICLT plans to expand further outside of Des Moines moving into neighboring suburbs. Further creating opportunities for families where it would not be accessible otherwise.

For the people who are interested in buying a home through the CICLT they would first have to apply for the shared equity program. This includes participating in pre-purchase counseling, homebuyer education and a shared equity class. These all are made to help guide and support the person to a successful homeownership journey.

At the ribbon cutting there was speeches from Carrie Woerdeman, Executive Director of HOME, Inc., Jaqueline Chico, Project Manager of the CICLT, and Christopher Civitate, Development Manager for Invest DSM, talking about this huge milestone and progressing toward long-term affordable homes.

"These homes behind me as well as the one in Highland Park are a representation of countless hours, collaboration, and partnership from different cities, organizations, and people who are invested in making a difference here in central Iowa", said Chico.

"Providing two structures for people in our community who will have a forever home that is affordable to them and then also to the next buyer", said Civitate.

People from all over the community came to support the CICLT during their ribbon cutting! Including the CICLT Board of Directors and members. Anyone can join to become a member of the CICLT and be a part of the change. You could play a significant role in making sure everyone has a safe and affordable place to live. This CICLT is governed by their membership so you will be able to have a direct impact within your community.

Moving forward the CICLT will continue to follow their mission of "empowering residents to create equitable, resilient, and thriving communities through permanently affordable housing". As a new non-profit the CICLT looks forward to working on accessible housing and change lives for generations.