County Directory
"Putting Essex County First"
Division of Housing and Community Development

Division of Housing and Community Development

DIRECTOR:
John Soares
Director, Division of Housing and Community Development
973-655-0200

 

The Essex County Division of Housing and Community Development is dedicated to ensuring safe, affordable, and sustainable housing while fostering strong, vibrant communities. We work with local municipalities, organizations, and residents to provide housing development assistance, community revitalization programs, and financial resources for homeownership and property improvements.

The Division of Housing and Community Development is committed to enhancing the quality of life for Essex County residents by expanding access to affordable housing, supporting homeownership, and investing in community development projects. Through federal and state-funded programs, we help individuals, families, and communities create safe, stable, and thriving neighborhoods.

 

We offer a variety of programs to support homebuyers, homeowners, and local organizations working to improve housing and community infrastructure:

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Opportunities
Provides funding for municipalities and nonprofit organizations to support infrastructure improvements, public services, and neighborhood revitalization efforts and social service programs that benefit low- and moderate-income residents.
Home Investment Partnerships (HOME Program)
Federal funding program that assists in the development and rehabilitation of affordable housing, as well as down payment assistance for eligible homebuyers.
Emergency Shelter Grant Program
Offers funding to shelters and housing assistance programs that provide emergency housing and support services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
Home Improvement Program (HIP) & Home Improvement Program (Spanish)
Provides deferred loans to low- and moderate-income homeowners to make necessary home repairs, including roofing, heating, plumbing, electrical work, and code violation abatements.
First-Time Home Buyer Program
Assists first-time buyers in purchasing a home through educational workshops, financial counseling, and access to down payment assistance.
Homebuyers’ Assistance Program (HAP) & Homebuyers’ Assistance Program (Spanish)
Funded through the HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HUD), this program provides deferred payment loans for extremely low, very low, and low-income households to assist with closing costs and down payments on homes, townhouses, condominiums, and duplexes.
Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choices Report
Conducts research and assessments to identify and address barriers to fair housing, ensuring equal housing opportunities for all Essex County residents.
Community Development Representatives 2023 Meeting Schedule
Provides updates, strategic discussions, and networking opportunities for stakeholders, municipalities, and organizations involved in community development initiatives.

Participants must meet program procedures and income guidelines.