$674,000 in Department of Economic Development grants is coming to the panhandle to help a range of first time home owners.
The City of Gering is receiving the largest grant. They are awarded $465,000 to construct five, single-family homes where the old McKinley School currently resides.
The homes will range from 95-to-135 thousand dollars, and will be available to qualifying first time home-buyers.
High Plains Community Development in Chadron is receiving $75,000 to help with closing costs for a dozen first time home-buyers.
And Western Nebraska Housing Opportunities in Scottsbluff is awarded $134,000 to help 35 first-time homeowners with a down payment and repair assistance.
