‘This is what it’s all about’: McKee presents West Warwick family with keys to new home

WEST WARWICK, R.I. (WLNE) — “Congratulations to the Cruz family for becoming homeowners,” said Gov. Dan McKee Wednesday as he presented keys to the new homeowners in West Warwick.

“This is what it’s all about — helping Rhode Islanders achieve their dream of homeownership,” he added.

Juan and Emelin Cruz are one of the first 100 closings under the Rhode Island Statewide Down Payment Assistance Grant Program.

The family of four received a $17,500 grant to help with down payment assistance and closing costs to buy their new home under the statewide program.

“Programs like the RI Statewide DPA Grant are key priorities of my administration to create opportunities for Rhode Islanders to build wealth and invest in their future,” said McKee.

The program is being funded with $30 million of the $250 million in federal American Rescue Plan Act State Fiscal recovery funds earmarked to address housing issues in Rhode Island, said the governor’s office.

The Cruz family had been recently renting an apartment with their two children before buying their home.

“Without this assistance, my family and I would not have been able to afford our home,” said Juan.

McKee said that as of February, 41 first time homebuyers have received $717,500 through the Rhode Island Statewide Down Payment Assistance Grant Program since its launch late January.