SAINT PAUL, Minn. (KTTC) – Minnesota Housing has awarded more than $560,000 to six school-led housing projects as part of a newly created program named Housing Challenge Funds for Schools.
This initiative combines hands-on learning in construction trades with efforts to create or preserve affordable homeownership opportunities across Greater Minnesota. All six initiatives are led by school districts partnering with local nonprofits, Habitat for Humanity affiliates, and technical colleges.
“I’ve traveled across the state and heard firsthand from developers who are struggling to find skilled labor,” said Jennifer Ho, commissioner of Minnesota Housing. “These projects do more than create affordable homes, they build the workforce our communities need. We’re excited to continue our housing investment in Greater Minnesota by supporting students and schools.”
Awarded districts include:
- Goodhue Public Schools – $99,030 – Collaborating with Goodhue County Habitat for Humanity
- Kenyon-Wanamingo Schools – $61,690 – Advancing student-led homebuilding in partnership with Goodhue County Habitat for Humanity
The remaining $400,000 is distributed amongst Bemidji Area Schools, ISD 728 Elk River, Saint Peter Public Schools, and Lac qui Parle Valley School District.
Future funding for similar school-led projects will be available through the 2025 Single Family Request for Proposals, now open on the Minnesota Housing website.
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