The new nonprofit Young Family’s Foundation has helped place a family in a home for the first time, and in time for Christmas. 

“That was because of you,” said Leslie Johnson, interim director of philanthropy and communications, to about 50 people gathered at their Sherman Avenue headquarters. 

Through donations, Johnson said, a young, hardworking family of eight will experience the excitement of homeownership and make memories under that roof. 

"You make that possible for the next generation,” she said, adding, “we raise a glass to you.” 

The YFF launched about a year ago with a mission "to empower young, hardworking families to achieve the dream of home ownership."

Even if a family saved $25,000, they would still be $19,000 short of the down payment needed to buy a $550,000 home, which is the median price in Kootenai County. It’s estimated that only about 20% of area households can afford to buy a house.

"Everyday, hardworking families are denied home loans due to a small gap in their down payment — all because home prices have surged 235% in the last decade," YFF said.

To help bridge the gap, YFF partners with banks and mortgage lenders to offer down payment assistance, financial education and long-term support, "so local families can plant roots, strengthening the community and economy we all depend on."

Pat Gogan, YFF founder, said they are doing what God has called them to do. 

“That’s why we’re here,” Hogan. “That’s why we’re helping young families.” 

Under the YFF grant model, the downpayment assistance does not need to be repaid after three years in the home; it builds equity immediately, focuses on long-term stability and creates dignity, not debt. 

“One of your first, best investments is your home,” Hogan said. 

Corina Larabee, YFF co-founder and executive director, said YFF recognizes families that work hard and want to stay here. 

“We're not rescuing people. That's not what we’re doing," Larabee said. “We're partnering with them to overcome systemic barriers.” 

Hogan praised other organizations, like the Panhandle Affordable Housing Alliance and the Housing Solutions Partnership, and said they are making an impact in creating attainable homes.

“So many people are working so hard,” he said. 

Homeownership is important, Hogan said, for many reasons. It offers wealth-building and financial security, creates jobs and workforce stability and improves education outcomes. 

He said YFF has been successful because helping young families become homeowners is a mission that everyone can invest in.

“We want to make sure our kids have a safe place to live and learn,” he said.

While it took YFF about a year to help its first family with home ownership, Hogan said it was “awesome” both when they presented the check and when the children knew they would be in their own home.

That it was a PAHA home made it even better. 

"It's incredible," Hogan said. 

    Pat Hogan speaks during the Young Family's Foundation recent celebration in Coeur d'Alene of helping a family become homeowners.