For low-income seniors, a broken appliance or an unsafe entryway can strain an already limited budget, but a Minnesota nonprofit is working to ease that burden with free home repairs and appliance replacements.
Qualifying homeowners will not have to pay for the assistance they receive from Rebuilding Together Minnesota, WCCO reported.
Here's what to know
Leaking plumbing and faulty electrical outlets are among the problems Rebuilding Together Minnesota plans to address for low-income senior homeowners.
Its safety and maintenance work also includes installing grab bars, stair rails, and ramps.
Doors that will not close or lock properly are another repair the organization can handle, said Kathryn Greiner, executive director of Rebuilding Together Minnesota.
"These are things we take care of so they can keep their bills smaller," she said, per WCCO.
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Appliance assistance can include a replacement washer, dryer, or stove for qualifying seniors.
More background
The assistance comes as increases in home repair and construction prices have outpaced inflation.
This has left many low-income Minnesotans unable to afford essential repairs and safety upgrades, according to WCCO.
At the same time, a national AARP survey found that 75% of older adults hope to continue living at home.
However, the cost of maintaining those homes was a major concern among respondents.
The research also found that anticipated changes in balance, strength, and mobility would require home modifications for 43% of older Americans surveyed, WCCO reported.
What can be done?
Senior homeowners seeking assistance can call Rebuilding Together Minnesota or find application information online.
"We replace appliances like stoves or washers and dryers. If you have appliances that aren't working, give us a call and we will see what [we can] help you with," Greiner said, according to WCCO.
From April through November, volunteer groups build ramps for qualifying homeowners, putting an otherwise costly accessibility project within reach, Greiner added.
Corporate sponsorship and volunteer crews make the nonprofit's work possible at no charge.
"It could be something as simple as two stairs are needed for coming in from the garage. We can help with little things that help them maintain independence," Greiner said, per WCCO. "It might be a door that doesn't shut or lock correctly; maybe it's a faulty outlet or a plumbing leak."
Where can I learn more?
Help with home repairs can ease the strain on a tight budget, but who qualifies and what's covered vary by program.
• Florida's Hillsborough County offers home repair assistance for homeowners facing structural and safety problems.
• In Pennsylvania, a $50,000 home repair lifeline vanished while low-income homeowners continued seeking help.
• Corpus Christi, Texas, opened a lottery for home repair grants worth up to $24,999.
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