The Pride of Carlisle Neighborhood Development Initiative

MISSION

Carlisle Housing Opportunities Corporation (CHOC) was incorporated on March 10,1997 and is a Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO). As a nonprofit, community-based organization, CHOC’s mission is to provide high quality, safe and affordable housing to low to moderate income people in the Borough of Carlisle.

VISION

In partnership with the Cumberland County Housing and Redevelopment and Authorities, Hope Station and Carlisle Opportunity Homes, CHOC will:

• Provide access to housing for low to moderate income people
• Offer high quality housing for purchase and lease to purchase
• Create an environment of co-operation with housing initiatives on local, state and national levels

HISTORY

CHOC undertakes comprehensive neighborhood development programs designed to promote homeownership opportunities in the Borough of Carlisle, primarily in areas that consist of high percentages of rental housing and absentee landlords, deteriorated houses and buildings.

CHOC is the lead developer of the award-winning Pride of Carlisle Neighborhood Development Initiative, which to date has resulted in the rehabilitation/construction of over 50 houses residents in the neighborhoods CHOC develops. All homeowners and lease/purchase tenants are encouraged to participate in neighborhood associations and community groups. Providing a unified voice regarding community development and offering ready access to borough council, police representatives, and Hope Station initiatives.

CHOC also manages a Lease/Purchase Homeownership Program that is designed to assist low-to moderate-income households in becoming first-time homebuyers by allowing them to enter into a three year lease which leads to the purchase of a property at the end of the lease. A portion of each monthly payment is deposited into an escrow account. The tenant has three years to purchase the home during which time enough money is accrued in the escrow account to cover down payment and closing costs. Monthly payments within the three year lease period are structured to reflect the buyer's monthly mortgage payments and the tenant is responsible for all utilities.

PARTNERSHIPS OF PRIDE

Initiatives led by Carlisle Housing Opportunities Corporation are truly a team effort and supported by state and local government, private and corporate contributions, local businesses and financial institutions. Through programs such as the Home Investment Partnership Program, the Community Development Block Grant program, the Cumberland County Affordable Housing Trust Fund, the Federal Home Loan Bank Pittsburgh, and the Community Reinvestment Act, CHOC is able to make homeownership a reality for low and moderate income individuals and families.