June 2, 2006
Contact: Jim Watson, DECD,
860-270-8182
Joan Hechtman, CIL,
860-563-6011 Ext. 24
Governor M. Jodi Rell announced today that the
Department of Economic and Community Development
(DECD) has awarded the Corporation for
Independent Living (CIL) a $1.5 million HOME
grant for its Loans and Grants for Accessibility
Program.
“This funding will help lend a hand to those
with disabilities and the families that care for
them. One key to improving the quality of life
for our disabled residents is to ensure that
their homes are accessible and safe, and this
program makes that possible,” said the
Governor. “The Corporation for Independent
Living, with support from the state and federal
government, is making a real difference in these
people’s lives.”
CIL anticipates providing grants for between 25
and 30 families that are currently on the
nonprofit’s waiting list. CIL provides grants to
low and moderate-income homeowners who are
disabled or who have a family member who is
disabled for the purpose of making accessibility
renovations to existing single-family homes.
The funds can be used for the construction of
ramps and renovations to make bedrooms,
bathrooms, and kitchens more accessible.
Martin Legault, President and CEO of CIL said,
“We are delighted that CIL will once again be
able to offer people with disabilities the
opportunity to make their homes accessible. The
positive response has been overwhelming and we
look forward to continuing our partnership with
DECD in creating accessible lives.”
To date, DECD has provided $10 million in funds
to CIL for their Loans and Grants for
Accessibility Program. The program has
benefited a total of 1,288 people at 416 homes
located throughout the state.
DECD administers the HOME Investment Partnership
Program, a federally funded program offering
grants, loans, and deferred loans to
not-for-profit and for-profit developers,
housing authorities, and individuals to develop
and support affordable housing. Eligible
activities may include new construction or
substantial rehabilitation of affordable units
for rent or homeownership. The HOME program
funds qualified projects statewide.
