Chicago City Wire

CHICAGO — Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Housing (DOH) have announced an additional $5 million in funding for the 2024 Flood Assistance Repair Program (FARP). This program is designed to assist homeowners impacted by severe flooding in July 2023. The initiative complements the $172 million FEMA funding already allocated, emphasizing the city's commitment to supporting its residents, particularly those most vulnerable.

"Chicagoans have shown incredible resilience in the face of last year's devastating floods," said Mayor Brandon Johnson. "This additional $5 million for the Flood Assistance Repair Program reaffirms our commitment to helping our residents rebuild their homes and their lives. By prioritizing support for our seniors and the most affected communities on the West Side, we are taking meaningful steps toward recovery and resilience. Together, we will ensure that our city remains strong, safe and united in the face of any challenge."

The 2024 FARP aims to support up to 200 homeowners, primarily seniors, residing in single-family or one-to-two-unit properties on Chicago's West Side. These homes suffered significant damage from torrential rains in July 2023, which resulted in eight inches of rainfall within 12 hours and caused widespread flooding.

DOH Commissioner Lissette Castañeda emphasized the importance of the program: "Our administration is dedicated to supporting Chicagoans who have been adversely affected by natural disasters. The Flood Assistance Repair Program is a vital step in ensuring that our residents, especially our seniors, can live safely and comfortably in their homes. We are committed to rebuilding and strengthening our communities with resilience and care."

The additional $5 million will supplement more than $172 million from FEMA’s Individual and Households Program. This funding was secured through a partnership between the City, State, and County to aid over 60,000 Chicago residents across the West and South sides. The FEMA assistance included $147 million in Housing Assistance and $24 million in Other Needs Assistance.

Key details of FARP include cross-departmental collaboration involving several stakeholders. While DOH manages the program, the Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) provides tools, equipment, and materials to community organizations. The Long-Term Recovery Group (LTRG) supplies an initial list of affected families while continuing efforts to identify additional resources. The Westside Health Authority (WHA) advocates for comprehensive support including case management services.

FARP will be integrated into DOH's existing Home Repair Program (HRP), leveraging expertise from BIPOC general contractors selected from DOH’s 2023 Request for Proposals (RFP) for HRP’s Roof and Porch program. This strategic approach ensures efficient delivery of services to households in need while promoting community wealth building.