Breaking Barriers: Program Supports Black Families in Buying Homes

In a significant stride toward addressing the racial wealth gap, Reparation Generation has launched the third round of its Home Ownership Reparative Transfer (HORT) Program in Metro Detroit.

 

This initiative offers $25,000 in reparative transfers, homebuyer mentorship, and restorative genealogy consultations to Black descendants of enslaved people in the U.S. residing in Wayne, Oakland, or Macomb counties.

 

Since its inception in 2022, the HORT Program has facilitated homeownership for 12 participants, with recipients reporting enhanced feelings of security, financial stability, and a deeper connection to their heritage.

 

One participant shared, "Being able to purchase a house...was so out of reach until I heard about [the HORT Program]. And so it really did change our lives."

 

Building on previous successes, the third iteration of the program introduces personal and financial readiness self-assessments, orientation sessions, and enhanced mentorship tools.

 

These additions aim to streamline the homeownership journey and foster a stronger culture of repair.

 

Applications for HORT 3.0 opened on September 1, 2025, with orientations held throughout August.

 

Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens, identify as Black in the 2020 Census, and trace their ancestry to enslaved individuals in the U.S.

 

They are also required to participate in Reparation Generation's evaluation activities for two years post-enrollment.

 

In addition to the HORT Program, Detroit has seen other initiatives aimed at promoting homeownership among Black families.

 

The city's Downpayment Assistance Program, launched in March 2023, provides up to $25,000 to help lower-income and middle-class renters transition to homeownership.

 

Furthermore, the Make It Home program has enabled over 1,600 Detroit families to become homeowners since 2017 by allowing residents to purchase tax-foreclosed properties they occupy.

 

These programs collectively contribute to breaking down barriers to homeownership, empowering Black families in Detroit to build generational wealth and establish a lasting legacy.

 

As one HORT participant aptly stated, "I'm looking to build a legacy through homeownership and build generational wealth. What better way to do it than with homeownership?"