All schools in Upshur County will close at 1 p.m. today. All B-UHS sporting events today are canceled.

HomeOwnership Center launches affordable loan program and hosts ‘Homebuyer Help Desk’

The HomeOwnership Center is launching an Affordable Fix Loan Program to help low-income homeowners with essential home repairs and will host a Homebuyer Help Desk during NeighborWorks Week to support first-time buyers.

In celebration of National Homeownership Month and NeighborWorks Week (NWW), the HomeOwnership Center has created a new Affordable Fix Loan Program designed to help more homeowners make necessary upgrades to their home.

The new Affordable Fix Home Loan Program is very much reflective of HOC’s mission of creating and supporting successful homeowners. The loan is designed for individuals on a fixed or limited income who are struggling to afford essential upgrades or accessibility modifications to their homes.

“Through my role as a Homeownership Advisor and speaking with the communities and local organizations, I saw this as a need for our region,” said Jami Carpenter, HOC’s Homeownership Advisor. “Limited income families that already own their home just can’t save money in today’s world, so we needed to create something to help them achieve repairs and upgrades they desperately need.”

The loan supports roof upgrades/replacements, upgrading flooring, HVAC improvements, heating/plumbing, and installation of safety railings and ramps.

For more information and loan details, please reach out to HOC’s Loan Originator Chris Vance by calling 304-636-9115 or emailing cvance@hocwv.org.

For this year’s NWW event, HOC will be holding a “Homebuyer Help Desk” to provide answers and support to first-time and aspiring homeowners.

NeighborWorks Week is a dedicated time to showcase the collective impact of NeighborWorks America’s network organizations and the power of resident-led change. This year’s theme, “Creating Homes, Building America” reflects the importance of expanding housing opportunities, strengthening communities and fostering economic resilience.

HOC staff will set up a Homebuyer Help Desk from 2 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 12 at the Tucker County Shop N Save locations. Stop at the Shop N Save located in Davis (371 William Avenue) or the Parsons location (302 D and W Lane) to chat with HOC staff about homebuying, home loans, financial education and more!

“This year, we’re celebrating NeighborWorks Week in Tucker County. This is an area where we have really tried to push visibility and increase awareness about HOC’s services and how we can help folks across the region — whether that’s becoming a homeowner or just learning how to fix your credit and budget sustainably,” said Sarah Goodrich, HOC’s Communications Specialist.

For questions about the event, please call 304-636-9115.

Share this story:

Local Businesses

RECENT Stories

Robert Bruce Wright

Robert Bruce Wright, 72, of Buckhannon, died June 6 at Monongalia General Hospital, leaving behind a large family and a legacy of years spent working for S.W. Jack Drilling and enjoying outdoor activities.

Doris June Gaunt Cutright

Doris June Gaunt Cutright, 87, formerly of Buckhannon and remembered as a loving family woman and avid reader, died June 4, 2025, in Akron, Ohio, with funeral services scheduled for June 12.

Upshur County man arrested after allegedly sending explicit images to teen

A 26-year-old man was arrested for allegedly soliciting a minor and storing explicit images after police say he admitted to sending nude photos to a teen whose family contacted authorities.

Buckhannon Banter: Get the local lowdown for June 6, 2025

This week’s Buckhannon Banter highlights local closures, upcoming events like ‘The Lion King Kids,’ community outreach initiatives, a dental office opening, and other announcements to keep residents informed and engaged.

Upshur County Schools propose new policy on personal electronic devices

Upshur County Schools will release a draft policy restricting personal electronic device use for students and staff that will be implemented starting in August 2025, with specific storage rules and escalating consequences for violations.

Mountain CAP Family Support Center offers free canning and preserving basics class

The Mountain CAP Family Support Center and WVU Extension Service are offering a free canning and preserving basics class on June 18, with registration required and basic supplies provided to participants.

Buckhannon City Council Special Meeting Agenda: June 12, 2025

Buckhannon City Council will hold a special meeting on June 12 and has rescheduled the June 19 regular meeting to June 17 at 7 p.m. at City Hall.

Buckhannon City Council shelves public works fee, approves ordinances on noise, habitability and traffic

Buckhannon City Council postponed consideration of a public works fee for streets and parks, while approving stricter noise and habitability ordinances as well as a new one-way traffic pattern on Maple Street.

Ten Buccaneers named to WVSLA All-State Team as Ray named Coach of the Year

Ten Buckhannon-Upshur lacrosse players earned spots on the WVSLA All-State Team, including six First Team selections, while coach DJ Ray was honored as Coach of the Year after an 8-4 season.