Brightpoint, MidWest America expands access

Brightpoint and MidWest America Federal Credit Union have launched a pilot program aimed at helping low‑to moderate‑income families qualify for home mortgages.

The program, called Brightpoint Home Advantage, is supported by a $600,000 reserve fund that reduces lending risk and allows the credit union to approve mortgages for borrowers who may not meet traditional requirements. The fund includes $500,000 from Fort Wayne New Markets Revitalization Fund, LLC and a $100,000 match from Brightpoint.

Under the partnership, Brightpoint will provide housing counseling and homeownership readiness services to prospective buyers. MidWest America Federal Credit Union will review applications, issue the loans and service the mortgages.

Program Highlights:

• Allows mortgages of up to $225,000 for qualified buyers
• Must have a minimum credit score of 580 and at least $1,500 available for closing costs
• At least 84% of loans will go to Allen County residents, with additional availability across northeast Indiana

“This program removes barriers that prevent capable families from accessing the capital they need to achieve homeownership,” says Steve Hoffman, president/CEO of Brightpoint. Because the reserve fund backs most of each loan, the initial $600,000 investment could support up to $4.8 million in mortgage lending, expanding access to homeownership while maintaining responsible lending standards.

“At MidWest America Federal Credit Union, we believe homeownership should be within reach for more hardworking families in our community,” shares Dave Shadburne, president/CEO of MidWest America Federal Credit Union. “Through our partnership with Brightpoint, this pilot program creates a sustainable pathway to mortgage access. We are proud to support an initiative that not only expands opportunity but also strengthens the long-term financial well-being of the families we serve.”

More information about eligibility and how to apply is available at mybrightpoint.org/homeadvantage.