February 15, 2022
GOVERNOR HOCHUL COMMITS UP TO $1 MILLION IN EMERGENCY FUNDING FOR ELIGIBLE HOMEOWNERS IMPACTED BY FLOODING FROM TROPICAL STORM FRED
Assistance Targeted at Low- and Moderate-Income Homeowners in Steuben County
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced up to $1 million in emergency funding will be made available to eligible homeowners in Steuben County who were impacted by flooding from Tropical Storm Fred in 2021. These state funds will provide emergency repair grants to homeowners who suffered damage to their primary residence during the flooding event.
“The flooding from Tropical Storm Fred last year continues to impact Steuben County residents and this funding will provide important aid to eligible homeowners,” said Governor Hochul. “As climate change increases the frequency and strength of storms, New York will remain committed to helping hard-working families repair their homes while building our resiliency for the future.”
The grant funds announced today cover damage incurred at a primary residence for homeowners who meet the program’s guidelines. New York State Homes and Community Renewal will oversee the program, which will be administered by Arbor Housing and Development, a locally-based non-profit organization with expertise in running housing rehabilitation programs.
Homeowners can apply to receive funding to cover the cost of emergency repairs necessary to bring their home into a safe and habitable condition. Eligible repairs may include repair or replacement of electrical and plumbing systems, septic replacement, roofing, accessibility and heating systems. Secondary repairs include installation of new windows, insulation, doors, and any scope of work that would improve the energy efficiency of the home.
Grants of up to $35,000 will be awarded based on a scope of work approved by Arbor Housing and Development. Applicants must be homeowners whose primary residence is Steuben County and have incomes at or below 90 percent of the Area Median Income.
HCR Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “For Steuben County homeowners still struggling in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Fred, this $1 million in critical aid will help them down the road to recovery. We are grateful to have a trusted partner like Arbor Housing and Development to implement this emergency program and a Governor who has again demonstrated her compassion for families hard-hit by unprecedented flooding events. Together, New York will ensure that communities have the resources they need to rebuild stronger than before as we grapple with the ongoing impact of climate change.”
Susan Bull, President/CEO of Arbor Housing and Development, said, “Arbor Housing and Development is thrilled to partner in the continued effort to assist homeowners recovering from flood damage in Steuben County. We are grateful for the additional support from NYS HCR, allowing us to expand recovery efforts in the small rural communities affected.”
Eligible homeowners seeking funding can visit Arbor Housing and Development’s website: https://arbordevelopment.org/homeownership-programs/ or call 607-654-7478.
