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Home Modification Grants Available
Apply Now, Work Must Be Completed by Late June
The Livable Home Modification Program issues grants that pay up to 50% of the cost of home modification to improve accessibility for Rhode Islanders that are disabled or who age into disability.
This funding was earmarked by the Rhode Island General Assembly to allow people to make their homes and apartments more accessible, and to remove barriers that interfere with their ability to remain safe and living independently.
According to John DiTomasso, Associate State Director/Advocacy for AARP, this is a great program because it can really help people stay in their homes. Wheel chair ramps, walk-in or roll-in showers are just a few of the modifications that can help someone safely remain in their home and in their community. Small, but sometimes costly repairs can be the deciding factor of whether someone can continue to live independently. These grants can improve the lives and reduce the financial burden on homeowners, renters and caregivers. All Rhode Islanders benefit when helping older adults remain living safely at home. Even the state benefits with reduced spending on Medicaid for unecessary nursing home stays.
Any income-eligible resident with a disability who demonstrates need can retrofit, or hire someone to retrofit an existing residence, shall be eligible for a livable home modification grant of fifty percent (50%) of the total amount spent, not to exceed $5,000. The retrofitting must meet specific criteria, and requires an assessment be conducted prior to the application date.
All work must be completed by the end of the state's fiscal year June 30, 2018. This grant program is administered by the Governor's Commission on Disabilities, and applications are being accepted now.
The application may be found by clicking the
The full regulations are found at this
link
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