Aurora offers crucial repairs for low-income families facing winter dangers

As winter approaches in Aurora, Colorado, the city has initiated a program to assist low-income families with essential home repairs that impact health and safety. This program recognizes the financial burdens faced by many residents, especially the elderly, who struggle to maintain their homes in the face of numerous urgent repair needs. Cost estimates for such repairs, like fixing furnaces, can range from $7,000 to $13,000, often making them unaffordable for those on limited incomes. The program aims to alleviate this issue by providing grants that can cover up to $12,000 for necessary repairs, excluding sewer or water line issues. The city's Community Development manager, Sarah Carroll, highlights the risks associated with delayed repairs, noting that many older residents may not recognize the severity of their issues until an emergency arises. Furthermore, Terry Hartzell, a local HVAC business owner, emphasizes the struggle many homeowners face between managing urgent repairs and their day-to-day living expenses. For homeowners who cannot afford repairs, dangerous situations could ensue, including potential health risks like carbon monoxide leaks or frozen pipes during the cold winter months. To qualify for this assistance program, applicants must meet several criteria, including having an income at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI), which for a single-person household caps at $71,900. Moreover, participants must own and occupy their homes, be free of liens or judgments, maintain homeowner's insurance, and have a solid mortgage payment history. To ensure equitable distribution of funds, the program limits participation to one grant per applicant. The program has seen a successful impact, having already helped 30 homes over the last three years. Sarah Carroll notes that currently, ample funds are available to support this initiative, allowing the city to provide quick financial support for residents in need. With a review process that takes approximately one to two weeks, the city of Aurora is dedicated to maintaining safe living conditions for its residents as they prepare for the winter months ahead.