The Housing Development Corporation is an Indiana non-profit 501(C)(3) corporation whose mission is to: Assist in the provision of decent and affordable housing for all residents of St. Joseph county and to act as an advocate and catalyst for neighborhood revitalization.  REWARD (Real Effort Wins Affordable Residential Dwellings) is a training program offered by the Housing Development Corporation of St. Joseph County (HDC) for low and moderate income individuals who wish to purchase a home but have felt unprepared to complete the process. 

The primary goal of REWARD is to prepare individuals to purchase a home and successfully meet their financial responsibilities. This is accomplished through Personal Counseling sessions and Homebuyer Education Classes. After a participant’s successful conclusion of the counseling and classes, REWARD provides the participant a down payment and closing cost grant not to exceed $1,000 towards the purchase of a home within the City limits of South Bend. 

REWARD Personal Counseling sessions include, developing a personal budget and savings plan, understanding credit reports, and learning how to handle credit in a responsible manner. 

REWARD Homebuyer Education Classes cover the various types of mortgages available, information about the loan application process, tips on shopping for a house, homeowner insurance, and budgeting.  In addition, this class will prepare participants for the mortgage closing process and inform them about handling the financial obligations of homeownership and home maintenance. 

For more information about REWARD please call 574.235.9371.

Department of Community & Economic Development
Division of Community Development
227 W. Jefferson Boulevard • Suite 1200 S
South Bend, IN 46601
574.235.9660 • Fax: 574.235.9469