Envelope & Energy Grant Project
Helping Cook County homeowners improve comfort, safety, and energy efficiency.
Supporting healthier, more efficient homes across Cook County
The Cook County Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) partners with Cook County Public Health and Human Services, the Cook County Local Energy Project, and the City of Grand Marais to help homeowners improve the safety, efficiency, and long-term performance of their homes. The Envelope & Energy Grant Project provides financial assistance for essential repairs that reduce energy loss, improve indoor comfort, and support the health and stability of local households.
Supporting healthier, more efficient homes across Cook County
This pilot program was created in response to concerns consistently identified through the county’s Healthy Housing Network. A significant number of home assessments showed issues related to building envelope failures and energy inefficiencies. To address this, HRA leadership and partner organizations developed a collaborative and streamlined program designed to make these improvements accessible to income-qualified residents.
About the Pilot Project
The Envelope & Energy Grant Project was developed to help Cook County homeowners complete critical repairs that make their homes safer, healthier, and more energy efficient. The program supports a range of improvements, including window and door replacements, roof and siding work, insulation upgrades, and other envelope-related repairs.
The program launched with funding approved by the HRA Board and has since supported projects across the county—from Grand Portage to Schroeder. Homeowners have used grant funding for stand-alone upgrades as well as eligible components of larger renovation projects.
FAQs
What types of projects does the Envelope & Energy Grant support?
The grant helps homeowners complete essential improvements that reduce energy loss and improve safety and comfort. Projects may include insulation upgrades, window or door replacement, roofing, siding, and other building-envelope repairs. Eligible work must address issues identified through a Healthy Housing Assessment.
Who is eligible to apply for this program?
This program is designed for Cook County homeowners who meet income guidelines and have completed a Healthy Housing Assessment through Cook County Public Health & Human Services. Eligibility is verified by PHHS staff, who also assist applicants throughout the process. Homeowners from across the county may qualify.
How does the application and repair process work?
Once a homeowner completes the assessment and is approved for funding, the project team helps coordinate bids, grant agreements, and contractor payments. Homeowners may use grant funds for stand-alone repairs or as part of a larger improvement project. Partner agencies support residents from start to finish to ensure a smooth and efficient process.
Project Partners & Roles
This program reflects a strong multi-agency partnership working together to support residents
Cook County Public Health & Human Services (PHHS)
- Conducts Healthy Housing Assessments
- Verifies homeowner eligibility
- Manages grant agreements and tracks funding
Cook County HRA
- Serves as grant signatory
- Processes contractor payments
Cook County Local Energy Project (CCLEP)
- Reviews bids and supports technical considerations
City of Grand Marais
- Provides documentation support and collects images and testimonials
These coordinated roles ensure that homeowners receive clear guidance, efficient service, and seamless support throughout the project.
Funding Sources
The program draws from two primary funding streams:
Minnesota Department of Health—Healthy Homes Grant
- Provides professional Healthy Housing Assessments
- Offers up to $750 toward recommended mitigation measures for income-qualified households
- Active through two funding rounds (2021–2026)
Cook County Local Energy Project (CCLEP)
- Reviews bids and supports technical considerations
Cook County HRA Pilot Project Funds
- Round 1 (2025): $15,000 allocated and fully awarded
- Round 2 (2025–2026): $36,302.21 allocated
- Grants awarded to homeowners county-wide, with a waitlist successfully addressed in early 2025
City of Grand Marais
- Provides documentation support and collects images and testimonials
Combined, these resources help homeowners complete otherwise unaffordable upgrades that improve comfort, reduce energy costs, and prevent long-term deterioration.
Homeowner Experiences
The program has generated strong, positive feedback from participating residents. A few highlights include:
“The grant made it possible for us to add insulation, and it has made a huge difference already. Our boiler used to struggle to keep the house warm, and now the walls are no longer cold to the touch.”
“At our age, we didn’t have the resources to make these improvements on our own. This grant made our project possible, and we are so happy with the results.”
“We could not have done this project without the help of the grant… we are much more comfortable and expect to save on our energy bills this winter.”
“Because of the home envelope grant, I was able to replace half of my home’s windows… This will greatly reduce my energy usage this winter and help preserve the wood and walls around the windows.”