Charlottesville Affordable Housing Fund (CAHF) Grant Program

CAHF Grant Program Overview

The Charlottesville Affordable Housing Fund (CAHF) Grant Program is a key tool in the City’s efforts to address affordable housing challenges.  

The program provides critical financial resources to nonprofit organizations and developers for the creation, preservation, and rehabilitation of affordable housing units within the City of Charlottesville. CAHF grant funds can be used for capital development projects, including new construction and rehabilitation, to ensure long-term affordability for low- and moderate-income households.  

The CAHF Grant Program aims to increase Charlottesville’s affordable housing stock, mitigate displacement, and support inclusive growth. 

Who Can Apply for this City Funded and Administered Grant?

Eligible applicants for the Charlottesville Affordable Housing Fund (CAHF) Grant Program include nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status or for-profit developers addressing affordable housing needs. Applicants must engage in activities that align with the City’s goals for affordable housing and serve households earning up to 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI).  

Projects must be located within the City of Charlottesville, and applicants must comply with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations. Individuals and for-profit businesses not actively engaged in affordable housing development are not eligible for funding. 

CAHF Grant Program Goals

The goals of the Charlottesville Affordable Housing Fund (CAHF) are to:

• Increase the City’s affordable housing stock through the development of new, income-restricted housing units.
• Preserve existing affordable housing by providing funds for rehabilitation and maintenance.
• Support long-term affordability, with a preference for projects that ensure affordability for households earning up to 60% of AMI.
• Stabilize neighborhoods and prevent displacement of low- and moderate-income residents.
• Promote inclusive growth and housing equity, aligning with the City’s Affordable Housing Plan and other strategic priorities.

Charlottesville Policy and Plan Alignment

The Charlottesville Affordable Housing Fund (CAHF) is closely aligned with several key City policies and strategic plans, including:

• Charlottesville’s Affordable Housing Plan: The CAHF plays a crucial role in achieving the goals set forth in the City’s Affordable Housing Plan, which aims to increase the availability of affordable, subsidized housing and improve housing stability for residents.

• Comprehensive Plan: By supporting affordable housing initiatives, the CAHF helps the City meet its broader land use, community development, and equity goals as outlined in the Comprehensive Plan.

• 2023 Strategic Framework: The City’s Strategic Framework identifies key strategic outcome areas (SOA) that CAHF-funded projects must align with. Several SOAs directly apply to CAHF-funded projects:

  • Housing: Increasing access to affordable, quality housing.
  • Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion: Promoting fairness, equity, and access in housing, especially for underserved communities.
  • Climate Action: Supporting sustainable housing initiatives that enhance community resilience. Access the Climate Action Plan [HERE].
  • Public Health and Safety: Enhancing public health and safety through stable, affordable housing, preventing displacement, and promoting housing equity.

• Consolidated Plan and CAPER: The Consolidated Plan is the City’s application to HUD for federal programs like the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME). These programs provide resources for affordable housing and community development. Access the Consolidated Plan [HERE].

Funding Focus and AMI Targets for CAHF

CAHF prioritizes projects that serve the most vulnerable populations. Funding is allocated based on the following income tiers: 

• 50% of funding is directed to households earning up to 30% of AMI.
• 30% of funding is for households earning up to 60% of AMI.
• 20% of funding is reserved for households earning up to 80% of AMI.

These allocations ensure that resources are distributed to the areas of greatest need, aligning with the City’s commitment to affordability and long-term housing stability. 

Eligible Uses for CAHF Grants

CAHF funds may be used for:

• New construction and preservation of affordable housing units.
• Rehabilitation projects to maintain affordable housing.
• Pre-development expenses (e.g., architectural plans, studies, zoning approvals).
• Projects that improve housing accessibility and energy efficiency.

Contact Information

If you need further assistance, please contact the Housing Division at (434) 970-3618 or via email at metzlerm@charlottesville.gov.