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On Monday, July 24th, 2023 - The Louisiana Housing Corporation (LHC) announced the re-opening of the 2023 Blue Tarp Fund Roofing Repair Program waitlist for homeowners who were unable to apply in February. Since the initial launch in February, LHC has been able to award close to 150 applicants with new roofs, which is crucial as we enter the peak of hurricane season. LHC will conduct an eligibility review and eligible applications will be added to the list to receive assistance. Blue Tarp Program awards will be awarded on a first come first service basis and will be subject to funding availability.
The Blue Tarp Fund Roofing Repair Program is currently a grant program designed to assist eligible homeowners in Ascension, East Baton Rouge, Iberville, Livingston, and West Baton Rouge Parishes with roofing repairs. LHC launched this program as a result of an initiative by Sen. Regina Barrow that was included in appropriation bills during the 2021 and 2022 regular legislative sessions. Due to Senator Barrow and the legislature appropriating an additional $1 million during the 2023 regular legislative session, LHC hopes to be able to expand the program.
"By reopening the application process now, this will allow LHC to expedite any future funding announcements by having a list of pre-approved applicants," said LHC Executive Director Joshua Hollins. "We anticipate additional funding for the program that will allow us to increase the number of homeowners that we can assist as well as expand the boundaries and include additional parishes, beyond the capital region."
Applications for the program are for homeowners who own and live in their home as their primary residence and have been the owner for at least one year prior to the assistance. The dwelling has to be located in one of the designated parishes and needed roofing assistance in accordance with the 2023 Blue Tarp Fund Roofing Repair Program.
Qualified applicants have to meet low-income requirements established by LHC Blue Tarp Fund Roofing Repair Program Grant guidelines of below eighty percent (80%) of the area median income. Owners have to submit income documentation, such as a pay stub or a benefits summary sheet, as well as proof of home ownership.
"We understand the devastating impact that natural disasters have had on homeowners in Louisiana," said LHC Executive Director Joshua G. Hollins. "The Blue Tarp Fund Roofing Repair Program is just one of the ways we are committed to helping our communities recover and rebuild after a disaster. We encourage eligible homeowners to apply for this program as soon as possible."
For more information about the 2023 Blue Tarp Fund Roofing Repair Program, or to submit an application visit, Blue Tarp Fund Roofing Repair Program or contact the LHC Disaster Recovery Department at 1-888-454-2001 or 225-763-8700.
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