The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) administers the HOME program, which helps to expand the supply of decent, affordable housing for low and very low- income families.  As a participating jurisdiction, the Chester County Department of Community Development (DCD) uses HOME grants to fund housing programs which meet local needs and priorities.

One of the major goals of the HOME Affordable Housing program is to provide funding for affordable rental properties to eligible individuals and families. Two local examples where DCD has committed funds for this purpose include the Elmwood Garden Apartments in Coatesville and the Cedarwoods Apartments in Kennett Square.

Although a significant portion of HOME funds continue to be used for rental housing assistance, there is a growing trend to put HOME to work in helping low-income families purchase their own houses.