Arkansas Awarded $3.5M to Install Storm-Resistant Roofs on Affordable Housing Projects

A construction crew working on the roof of a new apartment building in Oregon (Shutterstock)

• Magnolia
  • Member: Simmons Bank
  • Grantee: Magnolia Housing Authority
  • Grant: $1,000,000 for 180 rental units
• Little Rock
  • Member: Simmons Bank
  • Grantee: Metropolitan Housing Authority
  • Grant: $1,000,000 for 224 rental units

FHLB Dallas awarded a total of $8.7 million through six FHLB Dallas member institutions to 10 housing authorities across four states, including Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas.

The investment comes during the first year of FHLB Dallas FORTIFIED Rental Program, which is designed to help communities better withstand the impact of severe weather. The project targets FEMA-identified high-risk counties for hurricanes, hail, tornadoes or strong winds.

FORTIFIED roofs meet rigorous standards set by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety, going beyond typical building codes to protect against high winds, hail and thunderstorms — threats that have become increasingly common in FHLB Dallas’ region.

“We’re committed to making affordable housing stronger and safer for families facing tough weather,” Greg Hettrick, senior vice president and director of Community Investment at FHLB Dallas, said in a press release. “This initiative not only protects residents but also helps preserve the long-term affordability and safety of public housing across our district.”