MOUNT RAINIER, Md. — A new program in Mount Rainier is expected to help homeowners catch up with some much-needed repairs and improvements.
The City of Mount Rainier announced $150,000 in funding for a Home Repair Program for its residents on Monday. Officials say the money is coming through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. The program will give up to $7,500 to eligible households to support home improvements and repairs of their houses. In order to be qualified, residents must meet specified requirements and complete an application form to be considered for funding.
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The program was introduced by Ward 2 Councilmember Valerie Woodall which received unanimous support from the City Council during the Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Process.
“Buying and maintaining a home is no small matter. Many new buyers stretch initial budgets for the purchase of their home and long-term residents often want to update or address maintenance issues in their homes but don’t have the funds to address them. When homes fall into disrepair, it can be difficult for homeowners to catch up with needed repairs, homes can sell them or live comfortably. This program addresses that,” said Councilmember Woodall.
Officials say the City of Mount Rainier has roughly 1,160 single-family homes, with the median year houses built in 1951. The new program is intended to help beautify the community by providing financial assistance to eligible households to undertake specific interior and exterior home improvements and repairs.
“This is an excellent investment for the City,” said Mayor Celina Benitez, “while homeownership is one of the best ways to build wealth in this Country, any number of factors such as maintenance, repair, and improvements can saddle homeowners with debt.”
For more information on the Home Repair Program, click here.
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