Federal HOME Program Delivers Five New Homes to Jim Wells County

On December 31, 2025, five local households received keys to newly constructed homes funded through the federal HOME Program, a housing grant intended to repair or replace substandard owner-occupied residences. The County’s consultant GrantWorks and the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs administered the awards with construction by Malouf Construction, and the handovers were made by County Judge Pedro Treviño Jr.

The HOME Program provides federal dollars to bring deteriorating homes into compliance with local codes and construction specifications, and replaces houses when repair costs exceed allowable limits. Jim Wells County has participated in the program since 2001. Donna M. Johnson, GrantWorks associate vice president of housing programs, reported that in cooperation with the Rural Economic Assistance League (REAL) more than 100 homeowners have been assisted overall, with 55 of those in Jim Wells County.

Applicants for the program must already own their homes and be current on property taxes, hold a clear and marketable title (a mortgage is allowed but not a contract for deed), and have total household income below 80 percent of the Area Median Family Income. Applications for the recent round were taken at the Rancho Alegre Community Center. The process requires substantial documentation and patience, organizers said, but offers significant payoff for families who lack resources to maintain or replace unsafe housing.

The new homes are three-bedroom, two-bath units designed for accessibility and energy efficiency. Features include three-foot doorways, low-step showers and bathroom grab bars, as well as new appliances and the option for homeowners to choose paint, flooring samples and exterior colors. The accessibility elements reduce risk of falls and support residents with disabilities or limited mobility. Assistance under the grant requires no repayment so long as the homeowner continues to own and occupy the home for up to 15 years.

County officials framed the effort as a community partnership that advances quality of life. "It’s great when we have active community partners that enhance the quality of life for the wonderful people of Jim Wells County," Judge Treviño stated. "This year’s recipients are well-deserved families in dire need of home assistance that provide a safe and healthier environment. For me, it’s heartfelt and an honor to present the new homes to the owners. Great things are happening in Jim Wells County!"

Beyond individual comforts, such investments carry public health and equity implications: safer, stable housing reduces injury and illness, lowers utility and maintenance burdens for low-income households, and helps aging residents remain in place. As Jim Wells County continues working with GrantWorks, REAL and state agencies, advocates say sustained funding and streamlined application support will be essential to reach more homeowners facing unsafe housing and to address broader disparities in housing stability.