Health and Social Services Minister Jamie Ballem today advised that low and moderate income seniors now can register for assistance through the Seniors' Emergency Home Repair Program.
"In the Speech from the Throne in November 2002, our government promised a renewed Seniors' home repair program," said Minister Ballem. "We followed that commitment with a budget allotment of $200,000 this year to assist low and moderate income seniors with emergency home repair costs."
The program may contribute 50% of the cost of eligible repairs, up to a maximum of $1,500. Housing Officers will begin assessments on proposed repairs after August 18.
The Seniors' Emergency Home Repair Program is designed to provide assistance for low and moderate income seniors for emergency repairs to one of the major components of the physical structure. The senior must own and live in the home, and repairs must be necessary to correct a structural problem that could pose health or safety risk to the occupants. Repairs of a purely cosmetic nature are not eligible.
"Many Island seniors want to live in their own homes," said the Minister. "They want to be close to their families and friends and feel most comfortable in their home communities. This program will assist Island seniors who need specific emergency repairs, to ensure the homes they live in are safe and secure."
An information brochure with more detailed program information and a registration form will be available at any Access PEI site or by contacting the housing office in each of the four health regions.