Housing Equity Initiative(HEI)

"We recognize that housing insecurity, high rents, and outstanding tax bills strain the quality of life for many African American homeowners. Homeownership is fundamental to family stability, health, and legacy/generational wealth creation, and we are striving, with collaborative efforts, to make this a reality." 

- Kimberly Salley, Executive Director

"The best coffee in town! It's awesome!"

- John Evans

"It's my absolute favorite place to go!"

- Greg Smith

our
approach

Our Housing Equity Initiative  believes that homeownership should be attainable for everyone. We recognize that stable, affordable homeownership is one of the most powerful tools for building generational wealth and strengthening our communities. Our work is rooted in the belief that reversing housing insecurity begins with access, education, and opportunity. By developing affordable homes, equipping residents with the tools to become successful homeowners, and advocating for equitable housing policies such as property taxes, we are creating pathways to stability and long-term prosperity.

our
approach

Our Home Buyer Readiness Program (HBRP) is designed to prepare potential homebuyers for the process of purchasing a home. This program offers educational resources, workshops, and one-on-one counseling sessions to help potential homebuyers understand the various aspects of
homeownership.

OUR PROGRAMS

Reclaiming Washington Park

Home Buyer Readiness Program

Sunshine Gospel Ministries has partnered with United Power’s Reclaiming Chicago to provide affordable homeownership opportunities to Washington Park residents. Our mission is to foster generational wealth within our community by building single-family, two-flats, and condo units. We recognize that homeownership drives significant economic impact, strengthening the community’s financial foundation and creating a ripple effect of opportunity. By investing in housing equity, we are laying the groundwork for a more resilient and prosperous future for generations to come.
Imagine standing at the edge of a dream, your first home just within reach, but the path feels uncertain. For many, this isn’t just a feeling, it’s reality, and that’s where our Home Buyer Readiness Program (HBRP) steps in. HBRP is more than a program, it’s a support system designed to build confidence in future homeowners through workshops, resources, and one-on-one counseling that guide participants through every step of the journey. You’ll learn how to budget, understand mortgage options, build credit, avoid predatory lending, and care for your home, all with support tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re feeling unsure or simply need direction, HBRP is here to empower you with the tools and knowledge to move forward with confidence.

Reclaiming Washington Park

Sunshine Gospel Ministries has partnered with United Power’s Reclaiming Chicago to provide affordable homeownership opportunities to Washington Park residents. Our mission is to foster generational wealth within our community by building single-family, two-flats, and condo units. We recognize that homeownership drives significant economic impact, strengthening the community’s financial foundation and creating a ripple effect of opportunity. By investing in housing equity, we are laying the groundwork for a more resilient and prosperous future for generations to come.

Home Buyer Readiness Program

Imagine standing at the edge of a dream, your first home just within reach, but the path feels uncertain. For many, this isn’t just a feeling, it’s reality, and that’s where our Home Buyer Readiness Program (HBRP) steps in. HBRP is more than a program, it’s a support system designed to build confidence in future homeowners through workshops, resources, and one-on-one counseling that guide participants through every step of the journey. You’ll learn how to budget, understand mortgage options, build credit, avoid predatory lending, and care for your home, all with support tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re feeling unsure or simply need direction, HBRP is here to empower you with the tools and knowledge to move forward with confidence.

Retention

Helping families stay in their homes by assisting with property tax arrears, providing financial literacy workshops, and offering resources for long-term financial stability. 

Ownership

Empowering those who are apprehensive about starting their homeownership journey by providing the knowledge and skills needed to make informed decisions and successfully navigate the complexities of buying a home.

Revitalization

Sunshine acquires vacant properties and land for redevelopment into beautiful, energy-efficient homes, creating deeply affordable homeownership opportunities for Woodlawn families

Tax Benevolence

Families in the 20th Ward are at risk of losing their homes to the Cook County Tax Sale. Sunshine Gospel Ministries, in partnership with Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, developed our Tax Sale Benevolence Program (TSP). The goal is to asisst homeowners who are behind on their property taxes, and protect the generational wealth they’ve worked so hard to build.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out for support. 

Payment Plan Calculator Assistance

In partnering with the Cook County Treasurer's Office and Senator Robert Peters, we were able to assist in developing a Payment Plan Calculator. It allows property owners to avoid the tax sale by breaking their tax bill into smaller, manageable payments and paying off their delinquency before the sale begins. Click the tab below for the  

STRive to close the inequitable gaps...

Equity By Numbers

Equity By Numbers

Tax Benevolence

Families in the 20th Ward are at risk of losing their homes to the Cook County Tax Sale. Sunshine Gospel Ministries, in partnership with Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, developed our Tax Sale Benevolence Program (TSP). The goal is to assist homeowners who are behind on their property taxes, and protect the generational wealth they’ve worked so hard to build.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out for support. 

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