The Process
Your path to homeownership
We've designed our process to be as simple, safe, and supportive as possible. Here's exactly what to expect when you apply for a Rise Foundation grant.
Submit Your Application
Complete our confidential online application. We ask about your housing situation, income, and goals — never about the details of your abuse. All information is kept strictly private.
- Takes approximately 20 minutes to complete
- Available in English and Spanish
- No credit score minimum to apply
- Completely confidential — we never contact abusers
Initial Review & Interview
Our program team reviews your application and schedules a brief, trauma-informed phone or video call to learn more about your situation and answer your questions.
- Conducted by trained, compassionate staff
- You choose the time and communication method
- Interpreter services available
- No judgment — only support
Housing Navigation & Counseling
You're paired with a dedicated housing navigator who helps you understand the home-buying process, work with HUD-approved credit counselors, and connect with partner lenders who specialize in survivor situations.
- One-on-one housing navigator assigned to you
- Free HUD-approved credit counseling
- Connection to survivor-friendly mortgage lenders
- Homebuyer education course (required for grant)
Grant Disbursement at Closing
Once you are under contract on a home, Rise Foundation issues your down payment grant directly to the closing agent. You never touch the funds — they go straight to your home purchase.
- Grants range from $5,000 to $15,000
- Funds wired directly to closing agent
- No repayment required after 5 years of occupancy
- Can be combined with other assistance programs
Requirements
Who qualifies for a grant?
Eligible Applicants
- Documented survivor of domestic violence (documentation can include police reports, protective orders, shelter records, or a signed statement from an advocate)
- First-time homebuyer (have not owned a home in the past 3 years)
- Household income at or below 120% of Area Median Income
- Completed a HUD-approved homebuyer education course
- Pre-approved for a mortgage from a participating lender
- Purchasing a primary residence in one of our service areas
Not Currently Eligible
- Currently in an active abusive situation (safety planning resources available)
- Purchasing investment properties or vacation homes
- Households with income above 120% AMI
- Prior Rise Foundation grant recipients (one grant per household)
Still in danger? Please call the National DV Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 for immediate safety planning support.
Ready to take the first step?
Our application is confidential, takes about 20 minutes, and there is no obligation. Our team reviews every application with care and compassion.