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New Grant Supports Jacksonville Families in Property Ownership

Families in Jacksonville discussing property ownership.

News Summary

A $450,000 grant awarded to the Local Initiatives Support Corporation aims to help Jacksonville families secure legal ownership of inherited homes and generational land. Many families have faced challenges proving ownership due to complex legal issues, particularly affecting those impacted by storm damage who cannot access federal recovery programs. The grant will facilitate connections among individuals with legal rights to their inherited properties, addressing a growing housing crisis and helping families build generational wealth through formal title establishment.

Jacksonville – A new grant of $450,000 has been awarded to the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) to assist families in Jacksonville with preserving inherited homes and generational land. The funding is aimed specifically at families who are at risk of losing their properties due to complex legal issues surrounding ownership.

The grant will support the identification and stabilization of legal ownership among individuals who inherit property, many of whom may face challenges in proving their rights under traditional ownership laws. Inherited properties in Jacksonville are often classified as heirs’ property, meaning they have passed down informally through generations without clear legal documentation, leading to ownership disputes.

Numerous families affected by storm damage have found themselves unable to access federally funded recovery programs due to their inability to establish legal ownership. This situation highlights the urgency for families to obtain proper documentation that confirms their rights to the property they have inherited.

The Role of the Grant

Dr. Irvin Cohen, the executive director of LISC Jacksonville, explained that this grant provides a foundation for families, empowering them to create a meaningful legacy. Establishing a legal status for inherited properties is a critical aspect of the community’s ongoing efforts to address a growing housing crisis that impacts many residents in the region.

The grant will enable LISC to facilitate connections between families and individuals who have legal rights to the inherited property, aiding in the process of securing a formal title. This stabilization of ownership not only brings peace of mind to families but also has practical financial implications. Legal ownership can unlock home equity, which families can leverage for educational opportunities, business investments, or building generational wealth.

Addressing Community Needs

The importance of preserving inherited homes cannot be overstated, particularly for families of modest means. Asset protection and legacy transfer are vital components of financial stability, especially in today’s challenging economic landscape. Adam Dugan, an estate planning attorney, noted that passing along any form of asset to heirs underscores the significance of planning for the future and maintaining one’s estate.

LISC Jacksonville is collaborating with several partners to implement the grant effectively. Organizations involved with the initiative include the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta, Ameris Bank, and Three Rivers Legal Services. Together, they aim to provide comprehensive support to families navigating the complex legal landscape surrounding property rights.

How to Get Help

Families in Jacksonville who require assistance with the legal process associated with inherited properties are encouraged to reach out to LISC Jacksonville or its partner organizations. By working together, these entities aim to provide the necessary resources to ensure that families can safeguard their homes and maintain the wealth built through generations.

Conclusion

The $450,000 grant from LISC represents an important step towards ensuring that families can withstand the pressures of ownership disputes and economic challenges. By focusing on legal ownership stabilization and legacy creation, the foundation is laid for future generations to enjoy the benefits of inherited property without fear of loss.