Upper Cumberland Habitat for Humanity set to accept applications to its Critical Repair Program, which helps low-income homeowners address essential repairs.
Executive Director Jeremy Byrd said the program focuses on homeowners on fixed incomes who cannot afford major repairs. Byrd said the program allow seniors, especially, to remain safely in their homes.
“This is our probably third time taking applications for it, and we’re really excited about it,” Byrd said. “We’ve been able to help a lot of families in the Upper Cumberland, particularly people on a fixed income who own their home and need repairs that exceed their ability to afford them.”
The program relies on donor support, community partners, and volunteer labor to complete projects. Byrd said many repairs address safety and livability concerns rather than cosmetic improvements.
A major goal of the program is helping residents remain in their homes as housing demand increases across the region. Byrd said the Upper Cumberland continues to face pressure from population growth and limited housing availability.
“One of the things we can do through this program is help people who already own their homes stay there as they age in place,” Byrd said. “That allows them to remain in their home with dignity and comfort as long as possible and helps take some pressure off the housing needs of the area.”
Byrd said older residents on fixed incomes are among those most affected by rising construction and repair costs. He said insurance does not always cover needed repairs after storms or equipment failures.
“We have seen quite a few people who have been able to take advantage of this program,” Byrd said. “I want to say we helped around twenty individuals last year with the Critical Repair Program.”
The organization hopes to assist even more homeowners this year if funding allows. Byrd said partnerships with local agencies may expand the number of projects completed.
“I’m ever an optimist, so I’d love to double that number,” Byrd said. “A lot of it depends on funding, availability, and the needs that we assess that we can help with.”
Applications are reviewed by a committee that ranks requests based on urgency and program guidelines. Byrd said the program prioritizes repairs that directly affect health, safety, and the ability to remain in the home.
“In order to apply, the homeowner has to own the home, and it has to be a primary dwelling,” Byrd said. “We’re looking for necessary projects that will keep someone in that home, not cosmetic repairs.”
Applications for the Critical Repair Program will be accepted from February 2 through February 13. Byrd said applications and program details are available at uchabitat.org under the Programs section.
The program serves homeowners in Overton, Putnam, White, and DeKalb counties. Byrd encouraged residents to share the information with neighbors or family members who may need assistance.