Pennsylvania’s Whole-Home Repairs program did not receive the additional $50 million requested in this year’s budget, leaving many homeowners waiting for help, despite increased funding for other housing initiatives.
Pennsylvania’s Whole-Home Repairs Program Faces Funding Shortfall, Leaving Thousands on Waiting List
According to the report of The Philadelphia Inquirer, Pennsylvania’s Whole-Home Repairs program didn’t get the extra $50 million in this year’s state budget, even though Governor Josh Shapiro had asked for it. This program helps homeowners fix major problems in their houses, but because there is not enough money, almost 18,200 people are on a waiting list. The program was started with $125 million in federal aid, but now more people need help than there is money available.
The lack of new funds has caused frustration among those who support the program. Rachel Goodgal from the Keystone Energy Efficiency Alliance said it’s disappointing that many homeowners won’t get the repairs they need. Some counties, like Dauphin and Indiana, have already stopped accepting applications because they got too many, while other places like Allegheny County could only help a small number of people. Supporters say the program saves money by preventing people from losing their homes and helping older residents stay in their homes longer.
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Whole-Home Repairs Program in Pennsylvania Fails to Secure Additional Funding: Leaving 18,200 Applications in Limbo – $50 Million Short of Demand (PHOTO: WHYY)
Pennsylvania Budget Boosts Affordable Housing Funding but Leaves Whole-Home Repairs Program Without Additional Support
This year’s budget did increase funding for affordable housing programs, raising the amount from $70 million to $100 million by 2027, and included smaller amounts for other housing needs. Even though the Whole-Home Repairs program didn’t get more money now, its supporters plan to keep fighting for additional funds, believing that there will be more support in the future.
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