Thistle & Nest receives $540,000 to help local veterans buy a home through down payment assistance

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Thistle & Nest announced this week that it has been awarded $540,000 to help veteran households purchase a home.

These funds, provided by the Oregon Housing and Community Services' HOAP (Homeless Outreach and Advocacy Project) program, will offer critical down payment assistance, allowing first-time and first-generation veterans to build wealth and stability and to establish lasting roots in their local communities. 

Program Details: 

• First-time homebuyers: Veterans who have not owned a home in the past 3+ years can receive up to $30,000 in down payment assistance. 

• First-generation homebuyers: Veterans who have never owned a home, and whose parents never owned a home, can receive up to $50,000. 

• Flexibility: Assistance can be used for a purchase in any Thistle & Nest community across Oregon. 

• Income: Buyer households must make less than 80% of the area median income for the county where the home is purchased, and must be able to finance the home. 

• Wealth building: The down payment assistance will be structured as a forgivable loan. 

• Community land trust model: The veteran household will own the home and lease the land from Thistle & Nest. This ensures the home remains affordable for future generations. 

“Thistle & Nest is proud to offer this assistance, and we appreciate Oregon Housing and Community Services for prioritizing those who have given so much for our country. This funding has the potential to be a game-changer for veterans," said Amy Warren, board president of Thistle & Nest. 

Do you know a veteran who could benefit? Please share this opportunity with them! 

About Thistle & Nest: 

Thistle & Nest is a nonprofit offering down payment assistance to low - and moderate-income households, helping them achieve homeownership through the community land trust model. Their energy-efficient homes serve diverse community needs while staying affordable for future buyers. 

For more information about the veteran down payment assistance program or to determine eligibility, please contact: 
Thistle & Nest 
Email: info@thistleandnest.org