100 Home Program helps build the American dream

JACKSON, Mich. (WLNS) – Jackson has not been immune to the housing crisis, which is why the City decided to do something about it with its 100 Home Program says it is building the American dream, one home at a time.

“We were particularly hardest hit by [the] economic downturn,” said Cory Mays, grant coordinator for the city of Jackson. “Of course, then there was COVID and now we’re left with hundreds and hundreds of city-owned vacant lots and families that need affordable housing.”

More affordable housing is coming to the Jackson area—and with funds from the federal government—the City is also investing $2.5 million for a $25,000 down payment assistance per home.

“We know that a lot of times people can afford the monthly payments on the mortgage but they can’t necessarily afford the down payment,” continued Mays.”That could be a struggle, especially for first-time or first-generation homebuyers.”

Buyers like Anthony Ryder—who says owning one of these homes would be immensely helpful.

“[I’m] looking to try and get into a home and stop renting,” said Ryder. “I need to own something instead of putting money in somebody else’s pocket…I’m a single father. It would help a lot financially.”

Ryder’s family is only one of many that are looking to get one of the hundred new homes. Officials say there are more than a thousand applicants, and the future is already looking bright for some.

“We have approved 37 buyers as of Friday in just nine months,” said Mays.

Through the program, approved buyers have the option of one or two-story homes—all equipped with central heat and AC, a full basement, a shed, and a full kitchen appliance package—for $175,000.

“They are fantastic construction,” said Mays. “The two companies in this program, Norfolk Holmes and Paragon Construction, build million-dollar properties all over the state of Michigan. They’re using the same crews and the same same materials in these houses.”

The program is open to Jackson and non-Jackson residents and officials say the program will benefit more than the 100 families that will fill the homes.

“You’re giving families a house and you’re also just increasing the property values of everybody else on that street. It’s a win-win,” said Mays.

All 100 homes are scheduled to be finished by December 2026. For more information on the 100 Homes Program or more instructions on how to apply, head over to the Seen on 6 section of our website.

“This is just the beginning,” said Mays. “We call this ‘hundred homes’ but in reality, we know that we’re already building phases two and three of 200 homes and 300 homes…The need is huge. We’re trying to find the money to support the program that we already know we want to do and to support the community need and we’re gonna get there.”

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