After coming from several years working in for-profit corporations into a CDFI, I’ve come to appreciate the real benefits CDFIs provide to communities at all levels. CDFIs provide consumer, commercial, mortgage loans, housing development, community facilities when needed, and more creative solutions.
CDFIs have been essential vehicles for moving investment capital into communities that otherwise cannot access capital. We provide important technical assistance and financial support to grow businesses, finance projects, and revitalize communities thanks to investments from the CDFI Fund, which we then leverage with other private capital.
As a Community Development Financial Institution Homewise has utilized resources available through the CDFI Fund to help New Mexicans achieve their dream of homeownership. With dollars from the CDFI Fund Homewise has provided approximately $10.5 million in amortizing loans and another $6.9 million in down payment assistance to 656 households. Of these households, 60% were under 80% AMI.