As a result of federal and provincial investments in affordable housing, a new program is available to help low-income seniors and people with disabilities finance home modifications for accessible, safe and independent living.
Through a $15-million combined investment over the next three years, the Home Adaptations for Independence (HAFI) program will provide eligible homeowners and landlords with financial assistance of up to $20,000 per home, in the form of a forgivable loan. The federal and provincial governments share funding for the program equally.
"Our government is working hard to improve the lives of seniors and persons with disabilities," said James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages and Minister Responsible for British Columbia on behalf of Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). "Through the new Home Adaptations for Independence program, our government is working with the Province of British Columbia to develop and implement solutions to housing."
Eligible renovations and retrofits include handrails in hallways or stairways, ramps for ease of access, easy-to-reach work areas in the kitchen and bathtub grab bars and seats. All adaptations should be permanent and fixed to the home, except for equipment designed to give access to existing parts of the home such as bath lifts.
"The funding will help people living with a disability retain their independence and improve their quality of life," added Rich Coleman, Minister of Energy and Mines and Minister Responsible for Housing. "This partnership with the federal government will go a long way to help low-income seniors and people with disabilities create a home for themselves that is comfortable, safe and accessible."
The HAFI program was made possible following the signing, in July 2011, of a new Canada-B.C. affordable housing agreement. The Government of Canada and the Province of B.C. are contributing equally over three years to fund provincially-designed and delivered programs that support a range of housing needs for low-income individuals, families and seniors.
This program will provide assistance for B.C. residents who wish to make adaptations and remain in their own home. The combined investment of $180 million will support housing programs that help B.C. residents' access safe, affordable housing.
More information on the program is available at: www.bchousing.org/HAFI.
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