Three families in Jersey City will soon move into homes of their own thanks to financial help from the city.

The Housing and Urban Development Department provides grants to first-time home buyers with incomes under $60,000. HUD has helped 17 Jersey City families buy a home this year. According to an HUD spokesperson, the department provides grants up to $40,000 for low-income residents who are interested in purchasing their first homes.

The three most recent families received the grants Friday to cover the down payment and closing cost on their homes.

Grant recipients must live in their homes for at least 10 years. If they sell it, they must repay the grant so the money can be used for future home buyers.