A total of 175 applications for grants have been approved that will help homeowners make needed renovations to their homes, says Minister of Family and Human Services Doug Currie.
“These grants help Islanders who are in need gain greater security for themselves and their families,” said Minister Currie. “Changes we have made to the program have more than doubled the number of Islanders who will benefit.”
Under the Prince Edward Island Home Renovation Programs (PEIHRP), support is directed to help those with the lowest incomes and who need the most assistance.
More than 600 applications were received at the close of this year’s intake last month and almost 500 individuals qualified under the program requirements. Those who are eligible and did not receive a grant this year will not have to reapply for the next intake, which will take place this spring.
Letters will be sent next week to those who applied to let them know the status of their application.
Minister Currie said that while the program is reaching more Islanders, more can still be done. “It is obvious by the number of applications received that the need is still there,” he said. “We recognize that more can be done and we are committed to supporting these valuable programs.”
Based on feedback from Islanders, the department redesigned the program to increase access for those who need the most support and to allow Islanders to remain in their home.
The PEIHRP consist of two programs, the Renovation Program which provides a grant of up to $6,000 for necessary repairs and the Renovation Program for Persons with Disabilities which provides up to $8,000 for individuals with a permanent disability who require renovations to their home to accommodate their disability. More information on the PEIHRP and other programs available to assist Islanders with necessary renovations to their homes is available at www.gov.pe.ca/go/housing.