The City of St. Louis Announces Expansion of Tornado Recovery Vacant Unit Turns Program to Include Private Landlords and For-Profit Developers
The City of St. Louis’ Office of Recovery and the Community Development Administration (CDA) have made a significant update to the Tornado Recovery Vacant Unit Turns program. This change, announced today, expands eligibility to include for-profit developers and private landlords who currently own rental property in the City of St. Louis.
The revision is a result of the ongoing efforts of the CDA to quickly repair and reoccupy vacant rental units for families displaced by the May 16 tornado. The storm caused extensive damage to hundreds of homes in North St. Louis neighborhoods.
“This change to include private landlords reflects what we’ve been hearing on the ground,” said Mayor Cara Spencer. “Many small landlords want to help, and by expanding eligibility, we’re unlocking additional housing opportunities for residents displaced by the storm.”
Providing Financial Assistance for Vacant Rental Housing
The Tornado Recovery Vacant Unit Turns grant, funded by Rams Settlement, provides up to $2.5 million to cover minor repairs, maintenance, and updates to vacant rental housing. The financial assistance averages up to $10,000 per unit and all participating units must be occupied by tornado-impacted families by December 31, 2025.
Program Overview
Applications Open: Rolling basis through CDA’s Salesforce grants portal
Funding Available: $2.5 million (Rams Settlement Funds)
Maximum Award: Approximately $10,000 per unit
Occupancy Deadline: December 31, 2025
Eligible Applicants: Nonprofit developers, Community Development Corporations, public entities, and now for-profit developers and private landlords with rental property portfolios
Applications will continue to be reviewed and rated on a rolling basis to ensure that units are renovated and occupied as quickly as possible.
Before You Apply
Applicants should thoroughly read and understand the full Tornado Recovery Vacant Unit Turns (VUT) NOFA document before beginning an application. The NOFA provides detailed information about eligibility, required documentation, and funding priorities.
The NOFA document also includes guidance on how to complete the CDA Tornado VUT Repair Budget Workbook, outlining the necessary information for a complete application through the Salesforce grants portal.
Public Hearing & Workshop
A public hearing and workshop will be held on October 7, 2025, at 10 AM to discuss the Tornado Recovery Vacant Unit Turns program. Interested parties can attend the hearing and workshop to learn more about the program and ask any questions they may have.
Apply Now
Applications will be reviewed and awarded on a rolling basis. The Tornado Recovery Vacant Unit Turns NOFA materials and a link to the application portal can be found on the CDA’s webpage.
