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Successful Aging - Archived Article
Christmas in April!
Christmas in April is a national program that uses volunteers to provide repairs to low- income homeowners. In our area, more than three hundred local volunteers participated in this year's renovation day.
Seven lucky homeowners had help this year in making repairs to their homes-repairs that were important to the health and safety of their families. For the past five years, on one Saturday in May, the Broome County Christmas in April program has sent a team of volunteers to each home that was selected. The homeowners were local residents who met the program guidelines and were unable to make much-needed repairs on their own.
Each year, local businesses and agencies donate the money to buy materials, and volunteers provide labor, so repairs are provided at no cost to the homeowner. Some of the repairs that were completed during this year's work day were plumbing projects; electrical improvements; yard work; interior and exterior painting; masonry work; building of access ramps for the handicapped; and roof repair and replacement.
Christmas in April helps seniors and disabled persons who are unable to do the home renovations because of physical, or financial limitations--or both. Getting a hand with fixing up their property gives the homeowner pride in their home. After Christmas in April finishes the planned repairs, the person may find that doing other jobs that make their home safe and keep it attractive are easier for them to manage. It often encourages other neighborhood homeowners to want their homes to look better, too.
To be eligible for the program, you must have an income that is low enough to qualify for help through HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program). People who apply must be over 60, handicapped, or have young children in the home. Prior to being accepted for the program, the homeowner is visited by a staff person who will look to see what needs to be repaired. They will decide if the work can be done safely by unskilled workers and if the jobs can be completed within one day.
There is an application and screening process for a person to be considered for help through the "Christmas in April" program. To apply, proof of home ownership and proof of income are required. Self-referrals are accepted, as well as referrals for friends, neighbors or relatives who are in need of this kind of assistance.
The search for homes for next year's work day has already started. If you or someone you know meets the qualifications listed above, stop at the Old Vestal Road office of NYSEG to pick up an application, or call the Christmas in April answering machine at 607.778.6067 to learn how to apply.