Mercer and Lawrence County residents will more have access to affordable housing after Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf announced millions of dollars in support funding.

Wolf announced that 15 counties will receive a portion of $8.2 million dollars through the Pennsylvania HOME Investment Partnerships Program.

Lawrence County will receive $750,000 to for existing owner-occupied housing in partnership with the Lawrence County Community Action Partnership. Additionally, $500,000 is being awarded to the same housing in Union Township.

The Lawrence County Community Action Partnership was also able to secure $600,000 in HOME funds for Hermitage in Mercer County.

Wolf discussed what the grants mean for home owners who struggle with finances.

"Pennsylvanians should not have to choose between paying for basic necessities or needed home repairs to ensure the safety of their loved ones," said Gov. Wolf. "The HOME program provides low-income individuals with access to the affordable, safe, and reliable housing they and their families deserve."

HOME program funds offer opportunities such as homeownership or rental activities to revitalize communities with new investment.

Pennsylvania receives HOME program funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through the annual entitlement appropriation process.