More Information About the Collaborative Home Ownership Program:

People Inc. partnered with Niagara Area Habitat for Humanity to build an accessible, single-family home in the Village of Youngstown. This innovative collaboration addresses a critical need for affordable, accessible home ownership in Western New York.

Niagara Area Habitat for Humanity managed planning and construction, while People Inc. covered project costs. The home will be sold to an eligible buyer through Habitat’s home ownership program, which serves households earning less than 80% of the Area Median Income.

The Hinman Street property was donated to the former Rivershore Inc., which merged with People Inc. in 2016. Rivershore raised funds for an accessible residential project on the site prior to the merger, and those funds will be used to pay construction costs for the project. Groundbreaking on the three-bedroom home took place in October.

Once identified, the homeowner will be required to provide at least 100 hours of “sweat equity” in the home. This could include volunteering to help with construction or if unable, an alternative means of meeting the requirement would be developed.

“At Niagara Area Habitat for Humanity, we believe that everyone deserves a decent, affordable place to call home. Unfortunately, accessible homes often have higher costs associated with their construction,” said Gina Beam, Executive Director of Niagara Area Habitat for Humanity. “This means that for many individuals with disabilities, those extra costs push home ownership out of reach. The features in accessible homes are a fundamental requirement for those wanting to live independently and participate in their communities. We cannot achieve housing equity without addressing both affordability and accessibility together.”   

“Owning a home is transformative. It provides stability, empowerment and a sense of belonging,” said People Inc. President and CEO Anne McCaffrey. “This project reflects our commitment to creating opportunities that enhance lives and communities. By partnering with Habitat for Humanity, we’re not just building a house; we’re opening the door to independence for someone who needs it most. This is innovation with impact.”

This project is People Inc.’s first home ownership initiative, complementing its extensive portfolio of 39 affordable apartment communities and services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, seniors and individuals who are Deaf.

Home design was completed by Barden Building of Middleport, in partnership with Long Associates Architects.