HISTORY

Interfaith Housing Services, Inc. came into existence on January 22, 1989, at a Housing Symposium, where the housing needs of low-income families were discussed at length. In 1991, Interfaith Housing Services incorporated and became a 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit organization.
 

In 1995, IHS began its first time homeownership program. A grant intended for the completion of just 12 ownership projects was combined with donations, loans, and volunteer help to realize over double that number. In 2002 IHS established a partnership with First National Bank of Hutchinson to continue the First Time Home Ownership Program which remains solid and successful today.

IHS partnered with the Hutchinson Correctional Facility and the Southeast Kansas Educational Service Center in 2003 to build homes for the First Time Home Ownership Program or to become one of IHS's Special Needs Rental units. IHS provides all materials for two and three bedroom homes which are built on the HCF grounds by inmates in the vocational training program. Once completed, the houses are moved to vacant lots in the community.

This innovative program not only provides the community with affordable housings, but also helps inmates learn marketable skills for a new life.
 

In 2002 IHS developed a new program to help homeowners. The Home Owner Occupied Repair Program is quite popular and helps people take responsibility for keeping their homes repaired and safe.

The Lincoln School Area Neighborhood Association joined with Interfaith Housing Services in 1999 to help homeowners who reside from Avenue D south to Carey Park and from Plum to Main make much needed repairs to their homes. Often these residents fell outside the parameters of many programs to rehabilitate homes, thus not qualifying for assistance.

Under the LSANA program IHS works with the owner to obtain building permits, teaches the homeowner how to do repairs, inspects the work and calls for city inspections and professional services when needed. 

The owner must be able to repay 100% of the cost of materials. If, however, the loan is paid off on or before the due date, with no more than two missed payments and no late payments, the final 20% of the loan is forgiven. This program is an excellent opportunity for the neighborhood to come together to create a better community.

Applications for this program are available at:

	Lincoln Elementary School, 315 E Bigger
	Pic-Quick, 800 S Main
	City Hall, 125 E Avenue B
	Interfaith Housing Services, 1326 E Avenue A