By Lisa LaPlante

Residents in need of repairs or home modifications may be eligible for additional funding through a grant available in parts of Kent County. The Board of Commissioners voted this morning to provide an additional $181,689 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds for repairs on homes owned by low- to moderate-income families.

Kent County currently contracts with Home Repair Services (HRS) to provide home repairs of up to $10,000 for eligible clients outside of the cities of Grand Rapids and Wyoming (which have their own funding components). Those living in Kentwood would be eligible. The Kent County CDBG funds two programs:

*         Minor Home Repair Program: emergency home repairs to single family, owner-occupied homes for very low income homeowners making 80 percent of area median income (i.e. roofs, septic systems, furnaces, etc.);

*         Access Modification Program: modify homes of eligible individuals with mobility impairments in order to improve access and use of the home.

“The County partnership with Home Repair Services is vital to many homeowners,” said Jim Saalfeld, Chair of the Kent County Board of Commissioners. “Home repair or modification is often difficult for families living on a fixed budget, especially our most vulnerable elderly residents or those living with disabilities. This funding will assist families with necessary repairs that will also help retain or improve home values.”

“Home Repair Services is thrilled and honored to partner again with Kent County to maximize the use of these extra funds,” said HRS Executive Director Joel Ruiter. “We look forward to strengthening additional lower-income and vulnerable homeowners throughout the County. Successful and safe homeownership builds value and results in a stronger more vibrant community for us all.”

To learn more about Home Repair Service programs, call 616-241-2601 during business hours or go to www.homerepairservices.org.