The Town of Scituate is launching the Small Repair Grant Program for 2024, aimed at providing financial assistance to eligible homeowners in Scituate for essential repairs and modifications necessary for health and safety. This initiative is designed to support low and moderate-income property owners in addressing hazardous conditions, improving accessibility, and maintaining the quality of the town's housing stock. The program will offer grants of up to $3,500, which do not require repayment unless the recipient fails to comply with the program's terms or sells the home within one year of receiving the grant.

The primary purpose of the Small Repair Grant Program is to assist homeowners in making necessary repairs that can enhance their living conditions and ensure safety. Eligible projects include a wide range of repairs such as plumbing, carpentry, electrical work, and modifications to improve accessibility, such as installing grab bars or step-through tubs. By funding these repairs, the program aims to not only improve individual homes but also contribute to the overall well-being of the Scituate community.

To qualify for the grant, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria. The property must be located in Scituate, owned by the applicant, and serve as their primary residence for at least the next 12 months. Additionally, the household income must not exceed 100% of the Boston Area Median Income limits, which vary based on household size. For example, a household of one cannot earn more than $104,230, while a household of four must have an income below $148,900. Furthermore, the property assessment must be below the town's median assessed value for a single-family home, currently set at $791,250.

The application process requires interested homeowners to submit a completed application form along with any necessary documentation to demonstrate eligibility. Applicants will need to agree to sign a Grant Agreement and notify the Town's Affordable Housing Trust prior to selling or listing the home for sale within the 12 months following the grant payment. The evaluation of applications will prioritize health and safety considerations, financial need, and the availability of program funding.

The timeline for the Small Repair Grant Program indicates that the application deadline is set for October 30, 2024. It is important for potential applicants to be aware of this deadline and to prepare their applications in advance. The program is anticipated to be recurring, allowing for ongoing support to homeowners in need of assistance.

For further information regarding the Small Repair Grant Program, interested parties can visit the Town of Scituate's official website or contact the Affordable Housing Trust via email or phone. The contact details provided are scituateaffordablehousing@scituatema.gov and 781-545-8740, respectively. This program represents a valuable opportunity for eligible homeowners in Scituate to secure funding for essential home repairs and modifications.