Grant funding supports affordable housing in Martindale-Brightwood

New grant funding will help increase housing in the Martindale-Brightwood neighborhood and targets Black homeownership.

Martindale-Brightwood on Indianapolis’ near northeast side is undergoing rapid change.  A $1 million grant from Cummins will help Renew Indianapolis secure more affordable single family housing. 

CEO Steven Myer said the money will support 12 new homeowners.

“Be able to do more in an area that has been historically disadvantaged,” Myer said.

Renew is already active in the neighborhood through a variety of housing programs including the city's Lift Indy program. The group partners with local groups including the Edna Martin Christian Center to expand resources and identify neighborhood needs.

Edna Martin President and CEO Barato Britt said the aim is to provide equity for residents as redevelopment continues.

“To take advantage of all of the different opportunities and investments that are going on in the area,” Britt said.

The homes will cost around $150,000, provide low-income families with affordable mortgages and homeowner counseling. 

The award is part of Cummins' investment in equity programming.

Contact WFYI city government and policy reporter Jill Sheridan at jsheridan@wfyi.org. Follow on Twitter: @JillASheridan.