The Region IV Area Agency on Aging here in St. Joseph was recently awarded $1 million from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to provide more support for low-income older adults and people with disabilities in SWM.
Area Agency on Aging CEO Christine Vanlandingham tells us this grant aims to address the housing needs within the older population in undeserved communities by providing home improvement services.
“We are absolutely thrilled to be awarded this grant from HUD that will allow us to be able to further lean into helping older adults in our communities live safely in the communities that they love and to continue to be a vibrant part of community life across Southwest Michigan,” Vanlandingham says.
Vanlandingham notes this program helps improve residents quality of life by keeping them in their own home and promote independent living within the community.
“This service will be tailored to every unique individual,” Vanlandingham says. “No two older adults are the same. No two sets of needs are the same. We have staff that will come into the home and talk with individuals, understand their barriers to living in their own home, and craft a plan that meet their needs to achieve their goals.”
Homeowners and renters must live in Berrien, Cass, or Van Buren counties and be at least 62 years old. Those interested can visit the agency’s website or call 800-654-2810 to apply.
