Home Improvement Grants Available for Low and Moderate-Income Families
Home improvement grants, also known as home repair grants are available in all US to low and moderate-income households. Low-income families with children, single parents, seniors, veterans, and those with disabilities may use these funds more quickly. The criteria for these funds depend on the property’s location, nature of repairs needed, age of applicants, and income. These funds are also available to homeowners that have been affected by natural catastrophes including tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes. This article covers some of the home improvement grants available today. They are typically provided by local, state, or federal funding, but can also come from non-profit organizations and charities.
Access to Home Program
The NYS Access to Home Program is administered by the New York State Housing Finance Agency. It provides assistance to units of local governments and organizations incorporated under the New York State Not-For-Profit Corporation Law that help low- and moderate-income persons with disabilities. This includes people with disabilities with an income at or below 80% of the Area Median Income or 120% if they are certified veterans. These funds may cover repairs such as wheelchair ramps and lifts, handrails, doorway widening, and roll-in showers. For more information, review the Access to Home Program’s manual.
Restore Program
The Restore Program (Residential Emergency Services to Offer Repairs to the Elderly) helps low-income senior citizens (age 60 and longer) live independently longer. Funds up to $10,000.00 (depending on the State) may be used for new windows, insulating attics, walls, electrical and heating system repairs and replacements, and more.
A great resource for home improvement grants is also the Area Agency on Aging, available all over the US. Use this locator to find the one near you.
VA Home Improvement Grants
The Department of Veteran Affairs has programs that provide financial assistance for veterans. Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) Grants help disabled veterans if they need a wheelchair-accessible home. If you qualify for an SHA grant, you can get up to $20,387.00 for FY 2022. HISA Grants (Home Improvement and Structural Alterations) are also available to disabled veterans through the local regional medical center prosthetics department. The maximum amount is $6,800.00 but the veteran must be registered with VA health care.
Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants
Section 504 Home Repair Program is available to all rural area homeowners in the form of loans or grants if they are over 62. Loans may be used for home repairs and removal of health and safety hazards, and grants may be used for the removal of health and safety grants only. Loans and grants can be combined for up to $50,000.00 in assistance.
