Low-Income Residents to Benefit from Greater Nevada Credit Union’s New Grant
Nevada is witnessing a significant increase in its senior demographic. According to the Truckee Meadows Regional Strategy for Housing Affordability, the proportion of residents aged 65 and older oscillates between 10.5 percent to a whopping 29.8 percent. This rising figure unveils an often-overlooked concern. As these seniors grow older, so do their homes, with many of these aging structures posing safety risks and becoming less accessible over time.
Rebuilding Together Northern Nevada (RTNNV) is a dedicated nonprofit that steps up to address this pressing issue. Their noble mission is threefold: to mend homes in disrepair, invigorate communities, and restore the lives of Nevada’s low-income senior residents. A striking observation reveals that over half of the homes that RTNNV deals with are over 35 years old. For low-income seniors, the organization’s interventions prove invaluable, allowing them to continue living in familiar surroundings that are both safe and secure.
Meg Shea, the executive director of RTNNV, passionately expressed, “The most economical and comforting home is the one you’re already in. Our ambition is clear – we want to ensure everyone has the chance to remain in their cherished homes. The numerous seniors who inhabit these older residences, which are crying out for repairs, will undeniably benefit from the support we extend.”
In a recent turn of events, RTNNV was honored with a $50,000 grant through the Access to Housing and Economic Assistance for Development (AHEAD) initiative. This was made possible with the invaluable assistance of Greater Nevada Credit Union. This fund will enable RTNNV to broaden its reach, extending its services to rural areas in Nevada that are desperately in need, including Churchill, Douglas, Lyon, and Storey counties.
Rebuilding Together Northern Nevada, since its inception in 2020, has shown unwavering commitment to Nevada’s senior citizens, economically challenged homeowners, and revered veterans inhabiting older homes in need of refurbishment. Their efforts have been commendable. As an affiliate of the larger national Rebuilding Together network, RTNNV has touched the lives of 122 homeowners, successfully completing 695 repair projects across Nevada.
The organization’s approach is systematic. Before initiating any repair work, homes are meticulously evaluated using a checklist of 25 Safe and Healthy Housing Principles. The list encompasses fall prevention enhancements like handrails, grab bars, and modifications to toilets and tubs, as well as health and safety upgrades such as smoke and CO2 detectors, fire extinguishers, and critical roof repairs.
Rick Hassman, the chief financial officer at GNCU, remarked, “Upon discovering the admirable work RTNNV is executing in our communities, we were compelled to assist them in securing the AHEAD grant. RTNNV exemplifies community spirit, rallying partners from diverse backgrounds to uplift their neighbors. At Greater Nevada, endorsing such organizations is close to our heart. We are driven by a desire to help individuals ‘Live Greater’, and RTNNV is championing this mission.”
Anyone interested in learning more about RTNNV, or understanding the eligibility criteria, can explore their website at rebuildingtogethernnv.org. It’s worth noting that certain grants, like the AHEAD grant procured for RTNNV, necessitate collaboration with a local credit union for facilitation. GNCU is honored to have earned the trust of numerous Nevada nonprofits, including RTNNV, and fervently invites other organizations to collaborate. To dive deeper into how GNCU is making a difference, visit gncu.org or call 800-421-6674.
