Tucson Welcome Home Program Kick-Off: Making Homes Affordable for First-time Buyers

Posted by Alyse Knudsen on November 19, 2024

On Nov. 14, Tucson-area credit unions and the GoWest Foundation celebrated the kick-off of the Tucson Welcome Home program, a new program that offers zero down payment assistance – 100% financing for first-time buyers – and supports individuals and families looking to transition from renting to owning their own homes.

Hosted by Vantage West Credit Union, the event brought together partner credit unions, Pima Federal Credit Union, Tucson Federal Credit Union, Vantage West Credit Union, Hughes Federal Credit Union, Pyramid Federal Credit Union, and Tucson Old Pueblo Credit Union, along with Tucson-area community partners, and the GoWest Foundation. The impressive turnout for the event highlights the community’s enthusiasm for this important initiative. Launched in October, the credit unions have already received many applications for the Welcome Home program, signaling strong interest and an urgent need for affordable housing solutions in the region.

(L-R) Ray Lancaster (President & CEO, Pyramid Federal), Eric Renaud (President & CEO, Pima Federal), Sandra Sagehorn-Elliott (President & CEO, Vantage West), Matthew Gaspari (Tucson Federal), Elisa Ross (VP of Marketing, Hughes Federal), and Vernon Babilon (President & CEO, Tucson Old Pueblo)

The GoWest Foundation’s focus on affordable housing continues to drive transformative programs, and Tucson Welcome Home exemplifies how credit unions can collaborate to create innovative solutions.

“We know that affordable housing is a big issue in the community,” shared GoWest Chief Impact Officer and Foundation Executive Director Sharee Adkins. “We knew that we could each try to chip away at it ourselves, but it would be so much more powerful if we came together. We knew if we were to do the work together, we could help so many more people.”

“This will continue to grow and be a mainstay because the credit unions are committed to the work,” Adkins continued. “We’re just getting started!”

Sandra Sagehorn-Elliott, CEO of Vantage West, shared the journey that began 18 months ago among six Tucson-based credit unions to develop the Tucson Welcome Home program. “Affordable housing is a significant challenge in Tucson, with rental costs soaring by 30%. Many renters dream of homeownership but face obstacles in saving for a down payment,” said Sagehorn-Elliott. “This program offers a game-changing opportunity for families to establish roots and build generational wealth.”

(L-R) Gale Grant and Sharee Adkins

During the event, credit unions directly impacted by the program spoke about their experiences. Gale Grant, a member of Vantage West Credit Union, shared her personal story. A mother of a 13-year-old daughter and community steward working for a local non-profit, Grant had long dreamt of owning a home but struggled to save for a down payment. She first heard about the Tucson Welcome Home program through a friend and immediately saw it as a lifeline. “This program made homeownership a reality for me,” shared Grant. “It’s more affordable than renting, and I can now focus on building generational wealth for my daughter. I’m so grateful to be part of this community.”

The event was a testament to the power of collaboration among credit unions and their partners, demonstrating how collective action can address critical community needs. Tucson Welcome Home is more than a program – it is a movement toward creating opportunities, stability, and a brighter future for Pima County residents. The enthusiasm from all involved, from CEOs to community members, was a reminder of the unique role credit unions play in fostering financial well-being and building stronger communities.

For more information about the Tucson Welcome Home program, visit the GoWest Foundation page HERE, and for information about GoWest Foundation grants and collaboration opportunities, connect with the Foundation team.

Posted in Arizona, Community Impact, GoWest Foundation, Public Awareness, Regional Member News, Top Headlines.