THUNDER BAY - A home renovation program aimed at keeping low to moderate individuals living safely and independently in their homes is still seeking applications.
The Thunder Bay District Social Services Administration Board has more than $500,000 remaining as part of its Ontario Renovates program, which provides low to moderate income earners and seniors a forgivable loan to be used for home renovation projects.
Ken Ranta, director of housing with TBDSSAB said the number of applicants for the program ebbs and flows and they are currently at a low point.
“There’s always people who are interested in the program, but there is room for more within this current budget year and we thought this was a good opportunity and good timing to get out to the public and let them know about the funds and how to apply,” he said.
The remaining funds could help fund between 20 or 30 home renovation projects this year. The TBDSSAB generally sees between 25 and 50 projects throughout the year, depending on the scope of the work being done.
Eligibility requirements include the home being valued at or below $228,419 and a total household income below $40,000 for single occupants with no dependents, $55,000 with one dependent, $65,000 with two dependents, and $81,900 with three or more dependents.
“The program is aimed at homeowners, you have to own your own home, but individuals who are considered low or moderate income,” Ranta said. “We do tend to see more seniors. They have lived in their home a long time, so they may not be able to keep up with the renovations.”
The renovation projects that qualify for the loan are meant to allow the homeowner to continue living in the residence.
“What we typically do is ask the homeowner what they feel they need to live healthy and safely in their home,” Ranta said. “Then we will send in a home inspectors to confirm the work and make recommendations on the final project.”
These projects could include repairing a damaged or leaking roof, drafty or leaking windows, furnace replacement, safety upgrades like smoke alarms, mobility upgrades like ramps or grab bars, and general work like electrical upgrading and repair.
“These are projects that are aimed at sustaining an individual living safely and independently in their home,” Ranta said.
The loan, which usually does not exceed $25,000, will be forgiven at a rate of 10 per cent per year over 10 years given the homeowner retains ownership and continues residing in the home.
According to Ranta, the loan program is about taking pressure off other social services in the community, and allowing people to stay in their own homes longer.
“It’s really aimed as a homelessness prevention initiative,” he said. “If an individual has a home and has a residence and can live there safely and comfortably, that is the best place. Typically low or moderate income individuals don’t have additional funds to reinvest in their homes and make the necessary repairs when something comes up.”
Applications for the Ontario Renovate program are processed on a first come first serve basis. For more information on eligibility requirements or to apply, call 766-2111 or visit the TBDSSAB website.
