COLUMBUS – Three Columbiana County communities will receive funds for housing thanks to the Ohio Department of Development.

The department announced Tuesday $22.4 million in grants to 27 communities to improve access to housing and provide homeownership and rental assistance for low- and moderate-income families.

The Community Housing Impact and Preservation (CHIP) program partners with communities to preserve and improve Ohio’s housing stock through various housing-related initiatives such as home renovation and repair, rental assistance, and more.

Columbiana County will receive a $1.3 million grant to rehabilitate 11 owner-occupied homes, repair 13 owner-occupied homes, and include a fair housing component. The county will partner with the cities of Columbiana, East Liverpool, and Salem.

Additionally, Jefferson County will receive a $700,000 grant to rehabilitate seven owner-occupied homes, repair 11 owner-occupied homes, and include a fair housing component. The county will partner with the city of Toronto.

“We want all Ohioans to have a safe and stable place to call home, and these grants support that mission by improving housing, supporting homeownership, and creating opportunities for a better future,” said Gov. Mike DeWine.

CHIP program grants are funded by the Ohio Housing Trust Fund, the federal Community Development Block Grant, and HOME Investment Partnership Programs.

“When families have access to quality housing, it transforms lives and strengthens communities,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Department of Development. “We are committed to working alongside our partners to make transformational investments just like these that ensure every Ohioan has the chance to live their best life.”