Community opportunities

Homeowner Assistance Programs

• Direct Homebuyer Soft Second Mortgage Assistance Program – Offers up to $55,000 in soft second funds and up to $5,000 for closing costs to eligible first-time homebuyers. 

• Finance New Orleans’ Green Mortgage Program – Provides a 30-year mortgage for home purchases, along with a 0% interest second mortgage of up to $25,000 for down payment or closing cost assistance. 

• Housing Authority of New Orleans (HANO) Homeownership Program – Assists public housing and Housing Choice Voucher Program residents in becoming first-time homebuyers through preparation, assistance, and marketing components. 

Artist Residencies and Opportunities

• Live/Work Residency in Lower Garden District – Offers an affordable, creative, and supportive environment for artists at any stage of their careers, with opportunities to showcase work in the lobby gallery facing Magazine Street. Application deadline: February 15, 2025.

• Replenish Residencies at A Studio in the Woods – Provides 1-2 week restorative retreats for local BIPOC artists and culture bearers, offering time to rest, restore, and create. 

• Artist Residency Program at the Contemporary Arts Center (CAC) – Offers time, space, professional resources, and exhibition and performance opportunities for both visual and performing artists in New Orleans.

Upcoming Programs and Opportunities for Residents

• $2 Million Homeowners Assistance Program – Announced in September 2024, this fund supports low-to-moderate income homeowners experiencing financial difficulties, assisting with outstanding mortgage payments and insufficient escrow balances for flood insurance and property taxes. 

• New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival 2025 – Scheduled from April 24 to May 4, 2025, at the New Orleans Fairgrounds, featuring a diverse lineup including artists like Pearl Jam, Dave Matthews Band, Luke Combs, Lenny Kravitz, Lil Wayne collaborating with The Roots, and many more. Tickets for single and multi-day passes are currently available.