This spring, Commerce’s Community Reinvestment Program (CRP) finalized new economic development, legal assistance and reentry services funding for communities across Washington.
Supporting economic development through housing and asset investments
CRP’s economic development program works to repair wealth disparities. This includes $15.3 million to help more households move from renting to owning homes, especially households historically excluded from homeownership opportunities.
CRP provides funding to local partners who offer homeownership services across the state. This includes:
- Land acquisition for developers of color to build starter homes
- Down payment assistance to help first-time homebuyers qualify for a loan
- Debt reduction support to help buyers become mortgage-ready faster
- Foreclosure prevention to help support long-term success and stability
- Home repairs to promote health and safety, such as:
- Aging in place
- Disability upgrades
- Major systems like heat, water and roofing
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If you would like to learn more about accessing support, please visit our CRP economic development page and contact a housing and assets strategies partner in your region.
Helping people impacted by the criminal legal system through legal assistance investments
CRP is partnering with organizations to invest $1.8 million during the 2025-2027 biennium to expand post-conviction legal services that help people overcome barriers to jobs, housing and education. Legal providers are CRP’s primary community partners. In some areas, legal providers may work with local partners. Together, they deliver legal services and ensure funding reaches the communities most impacted by the criminal legal system.
Please visit our CRP legal assistance page to find legal aid providers and local partners in your region.
Reentry services provide wraparound support before and after release
CRP is investing $2.2 million in reentry services, funding local partners who deliver programs designed to support individuals before and after their release from incarceration. These programs focus on pre-release planning and post-release navigation, which helps formerly incarcerated individuals succeed in their reentry plans. They also incorporate healing-centered practices to assist people in reuniting with their families and communities, while providing access to case management. Additionally, employment and training services are offered to help individuals navigate career pathways, obtain necessary licensing, and enroll in education or training opportunities, ensuring a whole-person approach to reentry and long-term success.
