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Senior Home Improvement Program

Sometimes we all need some help around the house tackling those little repair jobs, adding a smoke detector, or installing a light switch. But if you’re a senior citizen, those tasks can become insurmountable. And without a relative nearby or a neighbor to help, they just aren’t going to get done.

Realizing this was an issue for many senior residents, the City of Vacaville’s Senior Roundtable asked the City’s Housing and Redevelopment Department to come up with a program to assist those in need of simple repairs and other help around the house. As a result, the Home Improvement Program (HIP) was created.

“We created this program on behalf of the Senior Roundtable, and it has proven to be fairly successful, thanks to the support of our labor unions and the community,” said Cyndi Johnston, Housing and Redevelopment Director for the City of Vacaville. “Now we’re encouraging those in need to let us know what those needs are. We want to help.”

HIP provides access to affordable, reliable and quality home modification services that support safe in-home independence for seniors and persons with disabilities in Vacaville. Those eligible for the program include low-income seniors and disabled renters or homeowners. The cost is set by a sliding scale based on net income, so a small portion of the cost may be required from homeowner or renter.

Items available for installation include:

o       Hand-held shower heads

o       Light toggle switches (including illuminated for bedroom, kitchen & bath)

o       Lever door handles

o       Smoke/Carbon detectors

o       Toilet modifiers

o       Tub/Shower benches

o       Tub safety mats

o       Throw rug tapes

o       Motion activated night light

o       Grab bars

o       Ramps (exterior)

For those who do not meet the income limits, or need major repairs, the City’s Neighborhood Conservation Loan Program (NCP) may help.  For NCP, your property must be in need of repairs to correct existing or imminent code violations. Some eligible repairs include termite damage, floors or sub-flooring repair, updating electrical, plumbing or heating system; repairing roofing, doors or windows; repair foundation, walkways, driveways, fences and walls; paint interior and exterior walls; re-stucco walls and weatherization.

Payments are based on clients’ ability to repay. In cases of very low income households, the loan may be deferred but will be reviewed annually to determine ability to pay.

For more information about the Home Improvement Program or to get a brochure outlining the program, visit the City of Vacaville’s Housing Counseling Center, 40 Eldridge Avenue, Suite 2, or call Daniel Gomes at (707) 449-5606.