New program & partnership focuses on unique issues of mobile homeownership
With grant funds and technical assistance from Arapahoe County, Brothers Redevelopment this winter will help Littleton mobile home owners make important
repairs that to improve safety and mobility and prevent injury. .
Through its Help for Homes Program, Brothers will leverage some $12,500 in Community Development Block Grant funds to complete important repairs that improve a mobile home’s overall safety or address code-related concerns.
Eligible program repairs include minor plumbing, heating and electrical repairs and exterior painting. The agency also will oversee improvements designed to ease mobility for disabled and elderly homeowners, including the construction of wheelchair ramps, the installation of shower grab bars, stair rails and many more accessibility-related refurbishments.
Since funding is limited, home repair projects cannot exceed $3,500. To receive assistance, Littleton mobile homeowners must occupy the home within the city’s boundaries; meet specific income guidelines, and be a legal resident of the U.S. All homes must also be in need of repairs that can be completed within program guidelines. Homeowners who do not meet the criteria to participate in Help for Homes will be referred to an appropriate program that may be able to address their needs.
"Brothers Redevelopment values this opportunity to leverage funding on behalf of clients, many of them elderly and disabled, who reside in mobile homes and find themselves grappling with home repair issues that they are unable to afford," said Jeff Martinez, vice president for programs and public affairs.
It's true. Many older residents living on fixed-incomes find mobile homes an affordable alternative to other types of housing. According to the National Consumer Law Center, approximately 41 percent of mobile homes occupied as a primary residece are owned or rented by persons age 50 or older. Compared to owners of conventional single-family housing, a much higher proportion of moblie home owners over age 50 are considered low- to very low-income.
Brothers Redevelopment is one of the few agencies that regularly helps homeowners who live in mobile homes, who face a wide range of challenges in maintaining their residences. Common problems include the use of substandard materials; drafty windows and doors; defects in heating, cooling and electrical systems; damaged flooring; and a variety of plumbing problems caused by pipe exposure.
While ‘Brothers’ primarily seeks to fulfill its mission of helping low-income elderly and disabled homeowners live safely and comfortably in their homes, Brothers Redevelopment also helps communities improve aging housing stock and preserve property values.
To obtain an application or learn more about the Help for Homes Program, call 303-202-6340.