New funding introduced for program to make houses safer for seniors
A complete of $15 million in grants from the U.S. Division of Housing and City Improvement can be put to make use of to assist maintain older Individuals of their houses so long as potential.
Minnesota seniors like Bettie Smith, 73, and her husband, John, stand to achieve from the brand new cash introduced Monday for the Older Adult Home Modification Program. The $15 million in new funding is on prime of $30 million in grants awarded throughout the nation in the identical program final yr.
The Smiths have lived in the identical north Minneapolis house for the previous 37 years, elevating two children and now a grandchild. They’ve had security handles put in round their bathtub, together with new smoke detectors round the home and a contemporary fridge to interchange an older mannequin that had began leaking.
These enhancements have allowed Bettie and John Smith to stay unbiased of their house of practically 4 a long time.
“It’s so vital as a result of we’ve invested on this house,” Bettie Smith stated. “I’ve acquired recollections right here. I raised my kids right here. I’m elevating my grandson at this level, and I don’t need him to return house and discover that I’ve fallen as a result of that was an enormous challenge.”
Bettie Smith, 73, stands on the entrance steps of her north Minneapolis house on Monday, Aug. 29, 2022. Smith’s house lately obtained security enhancements funded via a federal Older Grownup House Modification Grant Program, which is designed to maintain seniors dwelling independently of their houses. (KSTP)
HUD Secretary Marcia Fudge, Minnesota U.S. Sen. Tina Smith, Mayor Jacob Frey and Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity President and CEO Chris Coleman joined the Smiths at their house to announce the supply of grants for senior owners.
“We’re in a nation now the place most seniors can’t dwell like they dwell,” Fudge stated. “To dwell of their houses with dignity and assist that they want.”
The common house modifications solely value about $2,500 to make a home safer for seniors, so the $15 million in new grants throughout the nation can go a great distance.
Lund says among the fixes may be so simple as how owners get to their entrance doorways.
“We have a look at issues like are there railings on the steps? What situation are the steps in?” Lund stated.
Lund oversaw the modifications on the Smiths’ house for Habitat for Humanity. He says the handles within the toilet have been of essential significance.
Older Minnesotans can apply for housing modifications via Habitat for Humanity’s Age Well at Home program.
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