By JAN LARSON McLAUGHLIN
BG Independent News
Wood County Committee on Aging is one of three counties in the state chosen for a pilot home modification project for low and moderate income seniors.
That means at least 23 homes could qualify for $5,000 each in repairs that could make a difference in whether or not the seniors are able to remain living independently.
And it means Wood County Committee on Aging has a chance to prove that it can handle contracting directly with repair people.
“This is a very novel opportunity,” WCCOA Executive Director Denise Niese said Wednesday during a meeting of the WCCOA Board.
Wood County, along with the other two counties of Clark and Washington, have been awarded funds from the Ohio Department of Aging for the program. The $115,000 given to WCCOA must be spent by Sept. 30, 2024, with the maximum amount per house being $5,000.
“It’s a drop in the bucket,” Niese said. “But this is a huge opportunity to show that senior programs like us can directly contract with people for this.”
The senior center has provided help with home repairs in the past – with waiting lists every year since the funding is never enough to cover the needs, Niese said.
“I don’t think it’s going to be a problem to expend these dollars,” she said.
However, Niese is concerned about finding enough contractors who are licensed, bonded and insured – and willing to take on small jobs.
“It’s harder to find someone who will do these small jobs,” she said.
Unlike previous home repair funding that would pay for items like new roof installations or window replacements, the guidelines for the pilot funding are very specific. Some of the permitted modifications or repairs include:
- Replacing address numbers so they are visible from the street for first responders.
- Adjusting mailboxes so they are easier to reach.
- Replacing door locks with ones easier to operate.
- Installing hands-free doors with hold-open capability.
- Repairing flooring transitions so there is zero height difference between them.
- Installing railings and grab bars.
- Making tub cuts to enable easy entry to shower.
- Installing automatic stove turnoff devices.
- Moving lights switches and outlets so they are more accessible.
Many of the permitted modifications have safety in mind, Niese said.
“That is what they really need to remain at home,” she said.
“I think we can be somewhat creative.”
Anyone interested in applying for the repairs, or contractors interested in doing some of the work should contact social services at the Wood County Committee on Aging by calling 419-353-5661 or 800-367-4935.
