The city of Richmond, Community Bank of Missouri and Missouri Farm & Home Insurance have partnered to develop the Restore Richmond program.

This initiative provides eligible residents up to $2,000 to begin restoring and improving the appearance of their homes.

Restore Richmond was created to help eligible residents improve the safety and appearance of their property while beginning the process of rehabilitating the city’s aging housing stock.

Any Richmond homeowner can apply for the grant, as long as they have a residence they wish to improve. Some income restrictions apply.

Financial assistance is provided to eligible homeowners based on federal income guidelines. Income limits are based on the maximum annual gross income as shown on the chart below.

There are many projects that are eligible for Restore Richmond grant funding. Some of the eligible items include exterior painting; the replacement of shutters, siding and gutters; repairs to windows, fences, exterior doors and chimneys; exterior modifications to aid physically disabled persons, such as ramps and handrails; and the removal of small structures and dead trees.

Items that are ineligible include new construction projects; expansion or interior remodeling; any interior changes; pools, saunas or hot tubs; appliances; heating, ventilation and air conditioning units; foundations; driveways; roofs; water or sewer lines; and seasonal yard maintenance.

To apply for the program, submit the required information to the Department of Economic Development in person or by mail to 205 Summit St., Richmond, MO 64085; or by email at jgorham@cityofrichmondmo.org.

Applicants must do the following:1

1. Completely fill out and sign the attached application pages.

2. Submit proof of all income sources for the prior tax year.

3. Submit a copy of their current homeowner’s insurance.

Department staff members will review applications to ensure that all appropriate forms have been correctly filled out and meet program requirements.

Correspondence will be sent confirming the acceptance applications and projects. Upon acceptance, further information will be provided.

Three bids will need to be obtained from approved contractors.

For questions pertaining to Restore Richmond, contact James Gorham, economic development director, by calling 816- 776-5304 or emailing jgorham@cityofrichmondmo.org.