We are proud to support the Homeless Center for Strafford County (HCSC) with the purchase of $10,000 in tax credits through the New Hampshire Community Development Finance Authority (CDFA) to support their efforts to build a new shelter building ready for occupancy in the fall of 2021.
HCSC provides community members and families with shelter, case management and educational programs to help facilitate self-sufficiency and permanent housing. The Shelter was formed in 1998 by a group of committed citizens who recognized the desperate need for family shelter especially during the winter. Their focus is on a two generational approach to alleviating homelessness by directing programming on both parents and children. In 2019 and 2020, 100% of the homeless residents serviced obtained permanent housing with HCSC’s case management support. They currently maintain a 6-bedroom residential home but will be moving in the fall of 2021 to a new 5,250 square foot building where they will be able to provide shelter for 40 community members.
“We are excited to be able to support the mission of HCSC by providing residents with a safe environment, community connections and goal-oriented and family focused educational programs,” said Rick Wyman, President of Meredith Village Savings Bank. “Their efforts to support individuals and families with the tools to create the building blocks necessary for moving into permanent housing is commendable and strengthens the communities where we live and work.”
CDFA tax credits allow businesses to fund qualifying economic or community development projects in exchange for a tax credit that can be applied against state business tax payments. The tax credits are administered by the New Hampshire Community Development Finance Authority (CDFA). Any business with operations in NH that contributes to a CDFA tax credit project receives a NH state tax credit worth 75% of their contribution. The credit can be used over a period of five years to reduce the business’ state tax liability (business profits, business enterprise or insurance premium taxes). The tax credit program allows NH businesses to use their state tax dollars to support local projects that they care about. CDFA reviews many project applications each year and awards tax credits to those they determine are feasible and will make the biggest impact on economic development in the state. For more information, visit nhcdfa.org. CDFA Funds originate from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Funding.
HCSC is a mid-barrier shelter that expects clients to be clean and sober, work or volunteer daily and participate in setting goals with case management staff. Their comprehensive programming areas include but are not limited to budgeting skills; job interview skills; nutritional classes; nurturing parenting classes; children’s enrichment classes, and more. They were formed in 1998 as a non-profit 501(3) organization dedicated to providing services for community members and families in the fall, winter and spring months. If you know someone that needs assistance or would like more information, please contact them at http://www.homelesscenterforstraffco.org/
Image caption: Renderings of the new Homeless Center for Strafford County building
