A pilot program for low-income homeowners

Date

2005

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Southern New Hampshire University

Abstract

The Weatherization, Rehab and Asset Preservation (WRAP) Pilot Program for 503 households located in 4 specific census tracts of West Brighton, was developed whereby low-income homeowners will enjoy lowered energy cost through increased energy efficiency and reduced energy consumption in their homes, resulting from WRAP education, weatherization or rehabilitation. The Pilot was administered under the auspices of Neighborhood Housing Services of Staten Island, Inc. (NHSSI). The organization has many programs and services geared toward pre and post-purchase housing, as well as home maintenance and safety, which were used to complement this pilot. NHSSI offers Homebuyer Education, Mortgage Facilitation, Mortgage Restructuring, Financial Fitness, Home Maintenance Training Programs, Landlord Training, Insurance Education, Low-Interest Home Improvement Loans and Grants.Operating costs totaling $200K was granted by the Ford Foundation - $100K, SI Bank & Trust Foundation - $50K and BNY Mortgage - $50K. An additional $1M was set aside as bricks and mortar funds. NHS evaluated the success of the program by evidence of (a) increased asset value of participants' homes, (b) homes brought up to code, (c) reduced cost of home maintenance and monthly energy bills, thereby increasing discretionary income and (d) improved appearance and conditions of targeted neighborhood. (Author abstract)

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