YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio–717 Credit Union and the City of Youngstown have entered into a partnership aimed at promoting affordable home renovations and repairs.

The organizations said the Residential Property Improvement Programs include loans and grants for residential facade upgrades.

According to the city and 717 Credit Union, the initiative is funded by $5 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARP) money and will give homeowners the chance to improve the outside of their homes and landlords an opportunity to update their properties.

The two partners said the program offers low-interest loans of up to $10,000 at a 1% interest rate for five years or a dollar-for-dollar match up to $10,000 for exterior work like painting, window replacements, sidewalk repairs, siding, driveways, steps and garages.

“Finding affordable pathways for homeowners and improving our neighborhoods are priorities of my administration, and with the help of 7 17 Credit Union we are seeing plans become reality,” said Youngstown Mayor Jamael Tito Brown said in a statement. “The Façade Loan and Grant Programs not only serves as a critical vehicle for so many in our city to make needed improvements to their homes and increase the value in their homes, but it’s a step towards enhancing the perception of our neighborhoods and giving residents a level of pride.”