More than CZK 1.1 billion in European funds will be used to support social housing

by   CIJ News iDesk III
2022-09-29   07:12
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Over CZK 1.1 billion are available in two calls for European funds announced this week to improve the quality and availability of social housing. From the finances within the Integrated Regional Operational Program (IROP), which is managed by the Ministry of Regional Development (MMR), it is possible to purchase flats, apartment buildings and non-residential premises and modify them for the needs of social housing, announced by MMR.

Over CZK 796 million from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) are earmarked for projects on the territory of less developed regions in the 25th IROP call. Projects in transition regions can receive support from the 26th IROP call, in which there is over CZK 380 million. According to the ministry, less developed regions include, among others, the Ústecký, Karlovy Vary, Zlín and Moravian-Silesian regions. The so-called transition region is, for example, the Central Bohemian, Pilsen and South Bohemian Regions or the Vysočina Region.

"Affordable rental housing for people who have found themselves in adverse life situations is absolutely crucial. The challenges therefore aim to support the socio-economic inclusion of communities on the margins of society and to help low-income households and people with special needs. These can be avoided thanks to social housing to the unfair practices of poverty traders, who offer them apartments in appalling condition for above-average amounts," said Deputy Prime Minister for Digitization and Minister for Regional Development Ivan Bartoš (Pirates).

Eligible applicants include, for example, municipalities, regions and their established organizations or church organizations. Non-governmental organizations that have continuously provided social housing or successfully implemented a social housing project in the Employment Operational Program for at least five years immediately prior to the application can also apply.

Applications can be made until August 29, 2023, and completion of the project is required by December 31, 2026. The minimum amount of total expenses is CZK 500,000 and the maximum is CZK 90 million.

Source: CTK