First time home buyers in Turlock could be getting a little help from the state.

Last week, the City of Turlock received a $1 million award from the California Department of Housing and Community Development to help low-income first time buyers make their dreams of owning a home a reality. The award comes as a part of the CalHome program.

According to City Manager Roy Wasden, Turlock has been a recipient of the award for the last 15 years.

“It allows us to work with people who are buying their home and looking for assistance in the area of down payments,” said Wasden. “It’s a good way for people to get in their homes.”

The $1 million award will help 20 Turlock home buyers, with an allocation of $60,000 per unit.

In order to qualify for these awards, applicants must have low or very-low income households — incomes may not exceed 80 percent of the county median income ($50,671).

However, Wasden said that in Turlock, finding homes that are actually for sale would be an obstacle for first time buyers.

“One of the challenges we’re facing is that not many homes are for sale,” said Wasden. “The market is very tight.”

Surrounding counties including Fresno, Kern, Kings, Madera, Merced, San Luis Obispo and Tulare also received awards totaling $10.8 million.

“We are proud to help rehabilitate homes for struggling families while creating new, safe, and sound housing that improves and strengthens neighborhoods,” said HCD Acting Director Randall Deems.

Turlock residents who are interested in the program can begin applying now. For more information on the CalHome award, call 668-5540 ext. 2236.