H.O.M.E
Home Ownership for Mothers in Erie

To truly combat housing instability and help women build knowledge and wealth for their children, Erie City Moms bolsters Mother Figures who aspire to homeownership. At H.O.M.E., qualifying Mothers can gain the confidence and skills they need and connect to social capital that helps them achieve their dreams. 

 

History of H.O.M.E.

In fall 2023, Erie City Moms purchased and began renovating 226 East 10th Street. The 2,600-square-foot property was built in 1899 and considered blighted by the City of Erie Government.

With the help of our incredible team of moms, volunteers, contractors, advisors, and donors, the space is being transformed into two family apartments—the first in our growing Homeowner Pipeline Program called H.O.M.E.: Home Ownership for Mothers in Erie.

What H.O.M.E. Offers

Qualifying moms and their families will live in the apartments for up to 24 months and then move into a home of their choice anywhere in Erie County. The 3 to 4 bedroom units will be used as launchpads for qualifying Moms.

Mothers who are ready for homeownership receive:

  • Financial literacy education and accountability saving for a down payment

  • Mentoring on the systems and maintenance of a home

  • Hands-on support during their home-buying process

Qualified Moms and their families can live in H.O.M.E. apartments for up to 24 months while building credit, savings, and financial literacy for homeownership. During this time, Mothers receive:

  • Mentorship in budgeting and home maintenance

  • Guidance through the home-buying process

  • Support finding permanent housing and accessing first-time homebuyer grants

Why It Matters

After completing the program, Moms can purchase a home anywhere in Erie County. Moms who successfully finish the mentoring program receive 50% of their rent back at closing to use toward their new home.

H.O.M.E. empowers Mothers to achieve lasting housing security, independence, leadership skills, and financial stability. By investing in families, the program strengthens neighborhoods, builds generational wealth, and helps make Erie a more vibrant, inclusive place to live and grow.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

Thank you ECGRA - Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority, Hilling-Pfeffer Insurance, C. Carlin Plumbing, Redevelopment Authority of the City of Erie , Rainbow International of Northwest PA, Seaway Manufacturing Corp., Famous Supply, Erie First Assembly, Presta Contractor Supply, Leon Construction INC, Knorr Electric, Select Settlement, Inc., Kingdom Financial Foundation, and all our advisors and anonymous donors for your generosity. You are making this vision a reality!