Becoming a homeowner can be a challenging journey filled with financial hurdles. For many people these obstacles have made the dream of owning a home seem out of reach.

However, Youngstown city leaders want to change that narrative. Their newly approved "At Home In Youngstown" program will use $5 million of ARP funds to help turn people into home owners. 

Potential buyers who apply for the program can get $10,000 to cover a down payment and the closing costs. In addition to that, people can receive up to $15,000 for energy efficient upgrades such as a new furnace, water heater, windows, doors and insulation. 

Youngstown Housing Director John Noga, said the initiative aims to encourage long-term investment in the community and contribute to the overall revival of Youngstown. 

Eligible applicants are those who wish to become a homeowner.

"I don't want to leave out the residents that are [...] renting right now. With this incentive and with the down payment, maybe [they will] think about becoming a homeowner." Noga said. 

According to Noga, there are no income requirements needed to apply for the program.  However, the house has to be a single family home and the recipient's primary place of residence that they have to agree to live in for at least five years. 

The program is expected to start accepting applications on July 22 at the Catholic Charities Regional Agency in downtown Youngstown.

Noga said those interested in the program can also give him a call at (330) 742-8892 to discuss the program.