Free Home Repairs Available Through Abilene’s Neighborhood Services Program, Benefiting Local Homeowners
The City of Abilene, Texas is committed to enhancing the community and providing support to its residents. One grateful long-time Abilene resident, Johnnie Bradshaw, expressed her appreciation for the city’s assistance in making essential upgrades to her home, all at no cost to her.
Bradshaw, who has resided in her Abilene home for 33 years, decided to take advantage of the Neighborhood Services Critical Repairs program five years ago. She applied for assistance to make her bathroom wheelchair accessible, catering to the needs of her husband. Within a short period, Bradshaw’s application was approved, and a contractor was swiftly dispatched to remodel her bathroom. Recently, Bradshaw reapplied for the program to address the deteriorating condition of her wooden doors, which were replaced with durable and safer fiberglass doors.
Expressing her deep-rooted connection to Abilene, Bradshaw stated, “God put me in Abilene, and that’s where I’ll stay until he moves me or takes me home.” Her experience exemplifies the positive impact of the Neighborhood Services program on residents’ lives.
Leticia Reeves, the manager of Neighborhood Services, shed light on the program’s functioning. It offers assistance to low-to-moderate-income homeowners through grants, eliminating the need for repayment. To apply, individuals in need of support can visit City Hall to obtain an application or conveniently access the application online.
To be eligible for approval, homeowners must meet specific financial criteria. Once approved, a contractor is assigned to assess the home’s condition and initiate the necessary repairs or renovations. Homeowners have the opportunity to reapply every year if further work is needed.
In a significant development, Neighborhood Services has recently been granted $330,000, earmarked for the program starting in October. This additional funding will bolster their efforts to provide crucial repairs and remodeling services to the community. According to Reeves, more than 50 Abilene homes have already been repaired and remodeled through the program this year, exemplifying the tangible impact of their work.
The Neighborhood Services program remains steadfast in its commitment to improve the quality of life for Abilene residents by offering vital assistance and contributing to the overall well-being of the community.
