This issue of our monthly E-news is packed with updates on a broad range of the work we do here at the CDP.  From making our affordable rental homes more energy efficient to supporting entrepreneurs, these and other programs help us expand opportunities for people to live, work and thrive on the Lower Cape.  The challenge that has confronted us each year is how to sustain funding for our programs in the ever changing landscape of private foundation and government funding.

Fortunately, a new initiative in Massachusetts makes it possible for people like you to give to the CDP and get more than ever in return:  announcing the Community Investment Tax Credit!

This special tax credit is being offered to those of you who support our work.  The goal is to encourage more giving to Community Development Corporations like us.  Here's how you can help boost our impact now:

*    The state provides a 50% tax credit to businesses and individuals making donations of at least $1,000 to the CDP. (If the credit exceeds your tax liability, then the state will issue a refund and out of state donors don't need to pay MA income taxes to receive the tax credit.)

*    If you're one of our steady supporters, this means you can double your gift to us, seriously strengthening our programs. Let's say you--or your company--gave $1,000 last year. This year, if you double that gift to $2,000, the difference to our housing and business development work will be tremendous. Yet your net cost will be the same as last year because the state will give you a credit of $1,000.

*    If you've wanted to support the CDP, but haven't made a gift yet, this is a great year to get involved. This program means for every $1,000 you give, you'll receive $500 back from the state at tax time.

Read even more about the program here.

We are incredibly excited about this Community Investment Tax Credit and hope you will be inspired to join with us in making an investment in the future of the Lower Cape and the work of the CDP.

As always, thank YOU for your support and interest.

  

 

 
 

For almost a year, we've collaborated with the Community Economic Development Assistance Corporation to help administer the state funded Home Modification Loan Program on Cape Cod. The program provides loans to make modifications to the homes of income eligible elders, adults and children with physical or cognitive disabilities. Some of the specific work done through the program includes, but is not limited to:

-Bathroom modifications for safety & accessibility

-Installation of ramps

-Provision of generators for individuals on full-time oxygen

 

A more recent group of individuals assisted by the program are those with autism. Fencing in the yard, alarm systems, sensory rooms, & additional space lead to more independence.

 

According to Loan Administrator for the South Shore and the Cape & Islands, Amy Allen of SMOC, "The real benefit of the program is the support it provides for families who have a member with physical or cognitive limitations to be able to enjoy their home, by making it a place they can be independent and safe. The program is changing people's daily lives for the better." Read more about the program.

Sustainability     

 With support from the Town of Eastham's Community Preservation Act Fund, we're pleased to announce that our Real Return Initiative is moving into a new phase.  The CPA funding, along with support from Seamen's Long Point Charitable Foundation and other funders makes this renovation project possible. This phase of the Real Return will be focused at two of our properties in Eastham, including 7 affordable rental homes for 18 Lower Cape neighbors, including children. Work will include replacing windows and doors, installing new siding and roofs, exterior trim work, upgrading smoke detectors and CO monitors, added insulation, and the installation of a new high efficiency furnace and water heaters. This work will not only preserve these affordable homes, but the energy efficiency upgrades will also lead to lower utility costs for residents. 

Could your business use some extra guidance? Want to bounce business ideas off of someone? The CDP has arranged with Cape Cod SCORE to offer Individual Business Counseling with SCORE counselors right here in Eastham. Sign up today! 

First Time Home Buyers Education will benefit anyone considering or actively planning their first home purchase. The workshop covers: credit health and budgeting; the mortgage process and options; finding the right home and making an offer; appraisals; home inspection; legal procedures and protections; insurance protection; home energy audits and savings and ongoing home ownership.  

The CDP offers this workshop twice a year, next class will be in the Fall.

Title Sponsor

Where: CDP Conference room, 3 Main St Mercantile, Unit 8, Eastham, 02642

After Hours Networking! 

  

Join us for this networking event for young folks working on the Lower Cape who are interested in seeing more opportunities for young people to live, work and thrive in our community. Meet our friends from the Cape Cod Young Professionals , learn more about their "Shape the Cape Initiative", and about some of the things we're working on together.  Light Appetizers Provided. Cash Bar.

When:  Wednesday, June 11th from 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

Where: Winslow's Tavern - 316 Main Street, Wellfleet

Lottery for Affordable Rental Home in Eastham 

     

Application Deadline: Tuesday, July 1, 2014 at 3:00 PM

Information Sessions: Wednesday, June 4th at 5:00 PM
&  Saturday, June 14th at 10:00 AM - CDP Conference Room, 3 Main Street Mercantile Unit 8

Application: Download