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Governor Announces $10 Million in “Access to Home” Grants
New program will give seniors and disabled new long-term care options
Governor Pataki has announced State funding awards worth over $10.2 million to help New York seniors and those with disabilities to remain in their homes and out of nursing homes. These awards mark the first round of funding under the State’s new “Access to Home” program launched by the Governor earlier this year. The Putnam County Housing Authority will receive $200,000 as part of this award.
“For far too long there have been few alternatives for our seniors and persons with disabilities that wish to remain living independently,” Governor Pataki said. “For an older or disabled person, a simple ramp or other modification can sometimes mean the difference between living at home or entering a nursing home. This funding will help families make the home improvements needed to accommodate the needs of their loved ones.”
The Access to Home awards will provide $10.2 million to not-for-profit organizations to administer local programs to make the homes and apartments of low and moderate income New Yorkers with disabilities more accessible. Providing assistance with the cost of adapting homes to meet the needs of those with disabilities will enable individuals to safely and comfortably live in their residences and avoid institutional care.
The funds can be used to build ramps, modify bathrooms, and other home or apartment features. This assistance will also allow individuals currently living in institutional settings to transition back to their homes once the homes are appropriately adapted.
Homeowners and renters may qualify for Access to Home assistance provided they meet the following criteria: the applicant is physically disabled or has substantial difficulty with an activity of daily living because of aging; the dwelling unit is a permanent residence, or will be a permanent residence after modifications are completed; and, the applicant’s total household income does not exceed 80 percent of area median income.
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