102 Racine families in 2023 became homeowners thanks to HRI's vision for financial empowerment and community growth
RACINE COUNTY, WI — Thanks to the mission of Housing Resources Inc. (HRI), 102 Racine families have become homeowners in just the last year alone.
HRI has been a pillar for in the community since 2000, making homeownership accessible to hundreds low- to moderate-income buyers. Because Racine continues to face affordability and inventory challenges, HRI's work remains a beacon of hope for local families.
For Deshika Kidd, Racine program manager and Financial Empowerment Center Manager, and her team, HRI's mission is about more than homeownership; it's about transforming lives.
"The most rewarding part of our work is seeing clients refer their friends and family. It's a testament to the trust they have in us and the positive impact we're making in Racine," she said. "In just the last year, we've helped 102 families purchase their homes."
Overcoming challenges in Racine's housing marketNearly half of the city's renters spend more than 50% of their income on housing, Kidd explained, which is where HRI really lives out its mission.
Through financial education, counseling, and partnerships with local organizations, HRI addresses the financial and logistical barriers that often keep homeownership out of reach for many.
"We want families to understand the entire journey of owning a home, not just how to get a mortgage," Kidd explained.
The challenges in Racine's housing market—high rent, low mortgage qualification rates, and credit hurdles—often make homeownership feel out-of-reach for many families. HRI clients also contend with limited savings and high debt loads, which can prevent them from qualifying for traditional mortgages.
Kidd's team helps clients confront these barriers, offering guidance in credit improvement, budgeting, and debt management.
HRI provides each client with a tri-merge credit report, consolidating credit data to help homeownership specialists understand and address individual financial challenges.
Many clients come to us overwhelmed with debt, feeling like homeownership is beyond their reach. Our goal is to help them take control of their finances, improve their credit, and see that homeownership is achievable," she said.
Practical support: Down payment assistance and partnershipsBeyond counseling, HRI offers down payment assistance to clients completing their homebuyer education program.
By collaborating with local organizations like Habitat for Humanity , Racine Revitalization Partnership , United Way , and the City of Racine , HRI provides clients access to a broad range of resources. This approach has turned HRI into a one-stop resource for first-time homebuyers in Racine.
Elena Echeverria, lead homeownership specialist, highlights that HRI is the only HUD -certified nonprofit in Racine focusing on homebuyer education and counseling.
"Our partnerships allow us to extend our reach and support," she said. "Our clients have access to a network that includes everything from realtors to home inspectors to minor home repair grants."
Success stories and community impactMichael Turner lives in Racine resident, and he achieved his homeownership dream in his late 60s. During an interview with Racine County Eye, he emphasized the importance of building a foundation for family structure.
"Homeownership isn't just about having a place to live; it's about creating stability and pride in the community," he said.
Turner has nothing but good things to say about HRI and the team who helped him buy his home.
"The support from Mrs. Thomas, Ms. Stephens, Ms. Kidd, and assistant Ed Lane has been invaluable," he said. "They walked with me through every step, teaching me about budgeting, networking, and managing credit."
Turner advises others interested in homeownership to trust HRI's guidance.
"Go there, listen to them, and follow their advice. They help you understand and stay with you through it all."
Turner plans to continue working with HRI and participating in their post-purchase counseling program.
"This journey has only just begun," he says. "I'm sure the best is yet to come."
Lisa Stephens, a homeownership specialist in Racine, explained, "When our clients go from renting to owning, it's a huge achievement. This pride in homeownership doesn't just affect individual families; it strengthens the entire neighborhood."
Continued support through post-purchase educationHRI's commitment to clients extends beyond the initial purchase. To ensure long-term sustainability, they offer post-purchase classes on foreclosure prevention, budgeting, and home maintenance.
Additionally, clients can apply for minor home repair grants to cover initial maintenance needs, helping them keep their homes in good condition.
Post-purchase support also includes education on refinancing options, investment strategies, and life insurance, providing families with tools for lasting stability.
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