Erie City Moms has offered mom groups, mentoring, and help with basic needs for years. Now they are adding a new area of support-- housing.

"So we have a lot of moms who aspire to be homeowners, right?" said Amanda Burlingham, executive director at Erie City Moms. "But how can you save for a down payment for a house? If you're rent strapped month after month."

The median rent in Erie is $1,000.

"If you're living on a low income, that is impossible to save any money," said Burlingham.

So, Erie City Moms bought a house.

"The house that we're standing in today is our pilot program for H.O.M.E." said Burlingham.

H.O.M.E.-- Home Ownership for Mothers in Erie. The house on 10th Street will be remodeled into two units. Families who move in will stay for 18 months, paying low rent while saving for a down payment, improving credit and being mentored in home ownership.

"After about 18 months, they will transition to our real estate team, who will help them find the home of their dreams somewhere in Erie County," said Burlingham. "and then take advantage of all the first time home buyer opportunities that are out there for them."

Of course, they have to get the house remodeled first.

"I mean, we've got walls that we're knocking out. We've got new walls that we've got to put up, rewiring, an HVAC system..." said Burlingham.

Some volunteer groups have already come through to help.

"When we were here, I really enjoy knocking down the walls literally and metaphorically," said Shayla Word, a volunteer who came with Erie First Assembly. Several other organizations, including Rainbow International and Erie Bank. But, with the goal of a ribbon cutting in early spring, they are relying heavily on community support.

"When we build up a mother, you know, we were really supporting not just the mom, but also her family for generations to come," said Burlingham.

"From my own personal struggles, I know that if i had something like Erie City Moms in my life it would have been an easier experience," said Word. "I believe in their cause and their project and how they are helping women to grow."