The Iowa legislature created the Local Housing Trust Fund Program to allow certified Local Housing Trust Funds to efficiently fulfill unique local affordable housing needs throughout the state. The program receives at least 60% of the State Housing Trust Fund allocation to provide grants for organizations certified by the Iowa Finance Authority as a Local Housing Trust Fund.
Awards from the Local Housing Trust Fund Program must be used for the development or preservation of affordable housing for eligible recipients. Each Local Housing Trust Fund outlines its eligible projects in an approved Housing Assistance Plan. Examples include:
New construction
Acquisition and/or remodeling of existing property
Local down payment assistance programs
Home rehabilitation
Housing for persons with disabilities
Homelessness assistance programs
All Local Housing Trust Fund dollars must benefit low-income households at or below 80% of the area median income, while at least 30% of the funds must be used to serve extremely low-income households at or below 30% of the area median income.
Local Housing Trust Funds are the only eligible applicants for the program and must provide a minimum local match of 25% of the total grant amount requested. IFA accepts applications on an annual basis each fall.
There are currently 26 certified Local Housing Trust Funds, serving all 99 Iowa counties.
The Iowa Finance Authority accepts Local Housing Trust Fund Program applications each fall through an online application system.
Please note that individuals may not apply directly to the Iowa Finance Authority for assistance. If you are looking for housing assistance, please contact the Local Housing Trust Fund in your area.
Catch Up With Us on Social
