There is an organization in Northern Kentucky whose purpose is creating the possibility for lower income working families to share in the dream of homeownership.
David Hastings, Executive Director of Housing Opportunities of Northern Kentucky (HONK) began his presentation at a recent meeting of the Florence Rotary Club by saying he’s been told that HONK is one of the best kept secrets in town. But HONK doesn’t want to be a secret and Hastings went on to explain what the organization does.
Since their founding 20 years ago, HONK has rehabbed 63 properties and built 33 new homes. These homes have Dbeen made affordable for ownership to lower income individuals and families through a lease to purchase program.
Over 48 families that were formerly renters are now homeowners. There are 35+ families currently in the program. But HONK does more than just move families into houses. Through their education programs and counseling, they help the families improve their credit, work on budgets, understand mortgages and prepare for the responsibilities of home ownership. HONK also helps in navigating the home loan process.
HONK’s success comes through the help of volunteers, and corporate and community partners. Volunteers contributed over 15,000 hours last year. The corporate and community partners provide product donations and muster their member base to help.
HONK works with lower income families to help them purchase their own house. Eighty-five percent of their clientele are single, female head of the household, minority families. To be in the program, the family must have a steady working income so they can afford their monthly mortgage payments. They must be dependable, provide references, pass a credit check, and demonstrate their ability to care for a home.
Hastings noted that HONK is seeking and always appreciates volunteer help and financial assistance. For more information about how you can help, visit them online at www.honkhomes.org or phone Hastings at (859) 581-honk.
For information about weekly meetings, guest speakers and community service opportunities of the Florence Rotary Club, contact Pat Moynahan, president, at amoynahan@insightbb.com or (859) 802-0242. Visit the group’s website at www.florencerotary.org. Florence Rotary meets weekly on Mondays at noon at the Airport Hilton Hotel in Florence.
Article submitted by Chuck Seal
