Greater Middlesex & Morris Habitat for Humanity (GMM Habitat) has announced the receipt of $290,273 from the New Jersey Affordable Housing Trust Fund (NJAHTF). The funding will assist in the construction of two single-family homes in Perth Amboy, offering veteran preference and providing crucial affordable housing for low- and moderate-income families in the area.
“Perth Amboy has always been committed to making homeownership possible for hardworking families, and this investment reinforces that promise. These homes will provide not just a roof over someone’s head but the foundation for stability, opportunity, and a brighter future—especially for those who have served our country,” stated Perth Amboy Mayor Helmin J. Caba. “We’re proud to work alongside Greater Middlesex & Morris Habitat for Humanity and grateful for the state’s support in making housing more accessible. When we invest in affordable homes, we’re investing in the people who make our community stronger.”
This funding represents one of four NJAHTF grants awarded to GMM Habitat by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (NJDCA), bringing the total funding received to nearly $3 million, which has contributed to the creation of 19 affordable homes so far.
“We are so grateful to the state's leaders for this funding and their commitment to making housing affordable to its residents,” said Liz DeCoursey, CEO of GMM Habitat. “The NJAHTF grant is essential to each project, and without these state funds, our projects could be delayed years until enough funds are raised through other fundraising efforts.”
Looking ahead, GMM Habitat plans to submit further grants over the next two years to construct an additional 125 affordable homes. Twelve of these homes will be two-family duplexes in Old Bridge, ranging from one to four bedrooms. DeCoursey projects the cost of the next 12 grants to total around $20 million.
“There is no downtime,” DeCoursey added. “We never stop working to identify properties and projects throughout Morris and Middlesex Counties. The need is too great, and individuals and families are waiting, often in desperate situations. The funding provided by the NJAHTF grants is crucial. With these funds, we can deliver new homeownership opportunities faster and more efficiently.”
Through partnerships with municipalities, GMM Habitat has established a strong pipeline of projects. Towns often contribute property or municipal housing trust funds, and in exchange, homes are deed-restricted to remain affordable for 30 years, helping municipalities meet their affordable housing obligations.
According to DeCoursey, “Without such initiatives, municipalities may struggle to fulfill their affordable housing commitments, making the role of Habitat’s work even more critical.”
In addition to these ongoing projects, GMM Habitat has plans for another 150 homes currently in various stages of planning, with an estimated $25 million in grant applications expected for these projects.
Greater Middlesex & Morris Habitat for Humanity is part of a global nonprofit network, Habitat for Humanity International, that is committed to building homes, communities, and hope. Serving 68 municipalities in Morris and Middlesex Counties and the greater Plainfield area, GMM Habitat has helped nearly 1,100 families through the construction of more than 200 homes, home repairs, and housing solutions worldwide.
For more information, visit gmmhabitat.org or call 973-891-1934.
Originally reported by Kelly G. Vanasse in TAP into Raritan Bay.