More than 150 residents filled the Jenkins Community Center in March for a two-hour workshop on two City of Palatka housing assistance programs: expanding homeownership and preserving existing homes.

Down Payment Assistance Program

City officials showcased the Down Payment Assistance Program, which provides qualified Palatka residents with a one-time $20,000 grant to purchase a home within city limits. Prospective participants must meet several guidelines, including attending an 8-hour HUD counseling class, securing mortgage preapproval, working with a local realtor, and falling at or below 80% of the area’s median income.

“This funding is first come, first served,” said program coordinator Christall B. Azcarate. “We want to help people who are ready to close on a home in Palatka. Once the money’s gone, it’s gone.”

HOME Repair Program

The city’s second initiative, the HOME Repair Program, offers up to $40,000 in assistance to income-qualified homeowners to make essential repairs. St. Johns Housing Partnership administers the program, prioritizing health and safety needs.

“Some older homes may need more than $40,000 in work, but this is a start,” said Palatka City Manager Marcia Carty, who attended the event. “We’re trying to make sure homes are structurally sound and safe to live in.”

Addressing an Affordable Housing Need

According to Carty, Palatka faces a shortage of affordable housing that leaves many residents without viable homeownership options or the means to repair aging properties. “We want to increase homeownership and stabilize people living and working in this community,” she said.

Attendees at the workshop were also able to connect with nearly a dozen local vendors and representatives who detailed the application processes for both programs. “We had a fantastic turnout,” Azcarate said. “People were really thankful for the information.”

City leaders, including Commissioners Justin Campbell and Rufus Borom, helped distribute surveys during the event to gauge attendees’ needs and feedback. While the City of Palatka Down Payment Assistance Program has so far fully qualified only one resident for funding, the workshop introduced the opportunity to many others who may meet eligibility requirements.

Next Steps

Organizers are considering hosting another housing workshop, depending on the demand and remaining funds. Meanwhile, Azcarate encourages those seeking assistance to begin the application process quickly. Realtors are urged to call the City of Palatka, Carlos Dominguez, at (386) 329-0100 ext. 203, if they have clients ready to close on a home.

“Our ultimate goal is to help as many people as we can,” Carty said. “When people have stable, affordable housing, it makes the entire community stronger and safer.”