The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission (SWGRC) is pleased to announce that five communities within Region 10 have been awarded funding through the 2026 Community HOME Investment Program (CHIP), administered by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA).

The City of Arlington, City of Blakely, City of Camilla, City of Donalsonville, and City of Sylvester were each awarded $500,000 for Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation projects. These funds will help eligible homeowners make critical repairs and improvements that support safe, decent, and affordable housing.

In total, DCA awarded more than $10 million in CHIP funding to 12 communities and housing organizations across Georgia. The program is funded through the federal HOME Investment Partnerships Program administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). CHIP funds are awarded through a competitive application process that evaluates communities based on local housing needs and their commitment to expanding affordable housing opportunities.

The owner-occupied rehabilitation awards will allow participating communities to assist low- and very low-income homeowners with repairs that may include roofing, accessibility improvements, electrical and plumbing upgrades, heating and cooling system replacements, and other health and safety-related improvements. These investments help preserve existing housing stock while allowing residents to remain safely in their homes.

The combined $2.5 million awarded to the five Southwest Georgia communities reflects a continued commitment to improving housing conditions and strengthening neighborhoods throughout the region.

SWGRC is proud to support local governments throughout the grant application and implementation process and congratulates Arlington, Blakely, Camilla, Donalsonville, and Sylvester on receiving these competitive awards. These projects will create lasting benefits for residents and contribute to the long-term vitality of their communities.