Kate Farrar

The Housing Advisory Panel voted on Friday to approve one-time grant funding awards as part of the Interest on Real Estate Brokers Trust Account (IOREBTA) Program, including $15,000 for the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence and $5,000 for Integrated Refugee & Immigrant Services (IRIS).

The IOREBTA Program funds annual support appraisal gap financing for first-time homebuyers, the development of affordable housing projects, counseling for low- and moderate-income homebuyers, and second mortgage down payment assistance. This year's grant awards include assistance for intellectual and developmental disability (IDD) and Veterans' housing, low-income and affordable housing and homelessness assistance and prevention programs.

This grant awarded to the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence will cover various expenses, including costs associated with moving. These costs extend to both in-state and out-of-state relocations, encompassing furniture, appliances, as well as essential household items such as cleaning products and storage units.

IRIS will utilize this grant to support its emergency housing fund, which aims to provide rental assistance directly to immigrants and refugees struggling with housing costs. This fund offers financial aid for one-time emergency situations like illness or loss of a job, as well as instances where affordable housing is unavailable.

"I am proud to advocate for funding for both the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Integrated Refugee & Immigrant Services. These organizations play a crucial role in West Hartford and Newington with support, resources, and advocacy for domestic violence survivors, as well as for refugees and immigrants who start a new life in our state," said Rep. Kate Farrar (D-West Hartford, Newington). "With this investment in these organizations, we not only help individuals to rebuild their lives but also foster a stronger, more inclusive community for everyone."

Rep. Geoff Luxenberg (D-Manchester), Co-Chair of the Housing Committee and the Housing Advisory Panel, added that "Rep. Farrar advocated for this money to help the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Integrated Refugee & Immigrant Services. They received this grant award because of her leadership and dedication to the community."