Funds available for down payment, closing costs

BELLEVUE — Firelands Federal Credit Union, in cooperation with The Federal Home Loan Bank of Cincinnati, recently announced the return of the Welcome Home Program. The program offers grants to fund reasonable down payment and closing costs for low- and moderate-income homebuyers. In 2024, a total of 22 Firelands credit members received $425,000 in grant funds to assist them in securing mortgages. With this statewide program, the credit union can provide help to anyone. People don't have to be members of the credit union to seek assistance. The funding application opens up on Monday "and will remain open until all funds have been reserved," according to a company statement. "Reservations may not be submitted in advance. Funds are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Any qualifying Ohioan is encouraged to apply." "For many, buying a home can feel out of reach, but the Welcome Home program helps bridge that gap," said AngelaGrimmer, the credit union's vice president of mortgage lending. "We're grateful to be part of a program that truly makes a difference in our community." People can learn more by visiting firelandsfcu.org