Northumberland County and Habitat For Humanity Northumberland have teamed up to launch the 2020 Northumberland Renovates program.
Northumberland Renovates helps eligible homeowners access interest-free forgivable loans up to $10,000 to complete urgent home repairs, as well as grants up to a maximum of $5,000 to reduce physical barriers in order to make a home more accessible.
This program, a component of the Ontario Priorities Housing Initiative, is funded by provincial and Federal government launched locally in 2017. Since then, it has provided 46 forgivable loans to eligible low-income homeowners to complete urgent repairs and accessibility upgrades.
For 2020, $150,000 will be made available for eligible low-income homeowners, under the administration of Habitat For Humanity.
Habitat Executive Director Meaghan Macdonald said the agency thrilled to team up with the county again to deliver this critical program.
“Habitat's vision is a world where everyone has a decent place to live,” Macdonald said.
“We truly believe that, in order to achieve this vision, individuals and families need to be able to access all types of housing supports. We also recognize that COVID-19 has had a significant financial impact on many local families, and home repairs might have to drop to the bottom of the list of priorities. With more funding available this year, we can ensure that those most in need of urgent home repairs can access support to maintain a safe and decent place to live.”
“Northumberland County is pleased to continue this important partnership with Habitat For Humanity Northumberland, helping eligible homeowners to make necessary repairs and maintain their residency,” Northumberland Director of Community and Social Services Lisa Horne added.
“This initiative contributes to the delivery of key outcomes under the Northumberland Housing and Homelessness Plan and the county's Affordable Housing Strategy by lowering the rate of housing in need of repair and optimizing the local housing stock.
“Northumberland County is committed to working with community partners to provide a range of services and supports across the housing spectrum, as we strive to ensure all Northumberland residents have safe, appropriate and affordable housing choices.”
Low-income homeowners interested in applying for funding can submit an expression of interest on the Habitat website. For more information, contact Lana Missen at homerepairs@habitatnorthumberland.ca or 905-207-7534.
Habitat reminds everyone that, during this time, its administration offices remain closed to the public – but staff are working remotely and will respond to e-mails and telephone calls in as timely a manner as possible.
