Mayor Donna Deegan is asking the Jacksonville City Council to approve $11 million for affordable housing and homelessness initiatives in the city’s proposed budget, marking a significant increase after affordable housing funding was largely scaled back during the past two budget cycles.

The United Way of Northeast Florida will hold a news conference on Wednesday afternoon to announce a partnership with LISC Jacksonville, aiming to bring more housing to low-income neighborhoods.

New program will provide down payment assistance, and financial well-being courses for new home buyers in select zip codes.

LISC Jacksonville and LIFT JAX have partnered to offer a program called Operation Boots.  LISC looks to build new homes while LIFT seeks to upgrade homes for current residents or potential buyers...all for essential workers.  If you are a teacher, first responder or other that is considered an essential worker and have a passion and desire to live in the Jacksonville downtown area, you’ll want to watch this, then tune into our social media channels for the full interview.  The incentives to move into the area are very manageable and offers the opportunity to give back to the Eastside area that you may eventually call home.