Applications for the Prince Edward Island Home Renovation Programs (PEIHRP) are now being accepted for both the Renovation Program and the Renovation Program for Persons with Disabilities says Minister of Family and Human Services Tina Mundy.
“We have also increased funding to these programs to help ensure Islanders have access to adequate and affordable housing,” said Minister Mundy. “We recognize the demand and this year Government will provide grants of $1.35 million, an increase of $250,000. I am very pleased that we are able to provide additional capacity to these important programs and provide the support that Islanders need.”
This additional funding will mean that government can provide assistance to more than 215 homeowners, an increase of 40 Island households. This funding goes to qualifying applicants to allow them to make necessary renovations to their homes.
Those with an income of up to $35,000 and whose property value is assessed at $145,000, or less, are eligible. Applications will be prioritized based on income. Islanders who qualify can receive a lifetime grant up to $6,000 or up to $8,000 for a renovation required to accommodate a permanent disability.
“We are providing Islanders with the opportunity to gain greater security and independence for themselves and their families by helping them undertake needed renovations to their homes,” said the minister. “The additional funding will support individuals and families to remain in their current home, if they wish, and if they are able to - reducing the demand on seniors and family housing, long-term care and community care.”
Applications for the programs will be accepted starting today, April 27, and will close at 5:00 pm on Friday, May 13, 2016. Those who did not receive funding during the previous round of applications but met the requirements do not have to reapply. Those individuals would have received a letter from PEI Housing Services indicating that they do not have to reapply.
Funding for the PEI Home Renovation Programs is provided in partnership with the Province of Prince Edward Island and the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation through the Agreement for Investment in Affordable Housing.
The Department of Family and Human Services also provides funding for home renovation and repair programs that are specifically targeted to meet the needs of seniors. This year the province increased investments to these programs by $150,000. This additional funding will assist 40 more applicants, providing support to more than 375 senior households across the province. It also means that government has met our platform commitment to increase funding for these programs by a total of $400,000. More information on these programs is available at www.gov.pe.ca/gohousing.