If you’re looking to improve your home, there are plenty of free and low-cost programs available for low income families. These home repair services can help you with everything from roof repairs to electrical or plumbing work.
The most common way to get these services is through your local community action agency. They will have information on HUD loans and volunteer home repair programs.
Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity International builds homes and renovates them in areas of need. It is a Christian nonprofit organization that brings families, volunteers and resources together to build simple, decent and affordable housing.
Homeowners are selected to partner with local affiliates based on their level of need, willingness to partner (including minimum number of “sweat equity” hours), ability to make affordable monthly mortgage payments and other qualifications.
Since 2011, Habitat Buffalo has completed over 180 home repair projects and provided financial assistance to over 450 low income homeowners to help them keep their homes safe and healthy. These repairs include painting, accessibility modifications and fence replacement.
New York State
The state of New York offers a variety of home repair services to low income families. These services can range from helping with energy bills to making your home safer and more comfortable.
The NY RESTORE Program provides funds to elderly homeowners who need emergency repairs. This program is important to seniors who prefer to stay in their homes, but who need to address health and safety issues.
New York also offers a program to help with heating and utility costs called the Heat Energy Assistance Program. These programs provide cash grants and disconnection prevention to eligible low income households.
Opportunities For Chenango
There are a number of home repair services for low income families in Chenango County. This includes grants and loans for removing health or safety hazards, installing energy efficient appliances and upgrading roofs.
There is also an excellent housing program for residents facing eviction. These programs may include case management, temporary housing, and financial aid for rent. Other support, though more limited, is available through pantries and charity organizations. Depending on your budget, you could qualify for free Christmas gifts, prescription drugs or debt relief. The best way to find out what assistance you can get is by asking around. The Binghamton Homeownership Academy is a good resource for this information.
Cortland Housing Assistance Council
If you’re in need of home repair assistance, you may be able to get some help from the Cortland Housing Assistance Council. This agency works with low income families who need to make repairs and updates to their homes.
They also offer a program that offers grants for minor home improvements, such as fixing air conditioning or heaters, as well as plumbing and electrical systems. They’ll work with you to determine what repairs your home needs and how much you can afford to pay for them. They also provide referrals to New York state home improvement grants, materials and professionals to help you upgrade your home.
Community Development Corporation of Long Island
Community Development Corporation of Long Island offers low income families the chance to make home repair and improvement projects with the help of federal and state grants and loans. These programs are available for people living in occupied single family homes or mobile homes who qualify according to their income limits and location.
These home repairs can be made for structural issues, health and safety concerns, energy improvements, etc. They include roofing, siding, windows and doors, septic systems, and more. They are also available for homeowners whose homes have been damaged due to natural disasters like Hurricane Sandy. These funds are available on a first come, first served basis.
Margert Community Corporation
Margert Community Corporation offers a variety of home repair services to low income families. They can help with everything from weatherization to emergency repairs.
They also offer a pre-purchase homebuyer education and counseling program. This is an excellent way to learn about the homebuying process and what assistance you may qualify for.
They also have a number of other programs to help local residents. This includes tenant/landlord counseling, government benefits, mortgage aid and rental assistance. The best part is that it’s free! The company has a website with a wealth of information. They also offer one-on-one consultations with certified housing counselors. They also have a social service coordinator on staff.