Kent Home Repair

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Kent Home Repair is one of many Success Stories that have been locally nominated for recognition in celebration of CDBG's 30th Anniversary.

Success Story Details

Success Story Description

The City of Kent began funding the Kent Home Repair Program in 1975 with CDBG funds of $25,030. The program has been awarded funding each succeeding year and had a funding level of $300,000 in 2003. 2004 marks the 30th anniversary of the Kent Home Repair Program.

The Kent Home Repair Program provides assistance to 140 low- and moderate-income households. The goals of the program are to improve the health and safety of the living environment, provide decent affordable housing, and create suitable living environments by providing minor home repairs. Repairs include plumbing, electrical, disabled accessibility (grab bars, ramps, widening doorways, etc), roof repair/replacement, replacement of deteriorated porches, stairs, and floors, etc.

The program provides the repairs as a grant to the homeowner. Repairs are done by City Home Repair staff and local contractors.

The following outcomes were reported for 2003:

• 3% of clients had an increased understanding of health and safety issues related to home maintenance.
• 89% of clients reported an improved level of home safety.
• 9% of clients surveyed reported increased self-sufficiency in their ability to maintain their homes following repairs and/or to remain in their homes.
• 100% of clients enrolled in the program received printed brochures providing information on lead-based paint.