The grant, in fact part of the Hurricane Sandy recovery program, also covers Cullman and Marion Counties, which are also both designated “high-impact” areas, but the damage does not have to be the result of the tornadoes.
“Because those areas are still recovering, some of the flexibility is to allow people to build up the tax base by purchasing a home that is newly-constructed in those areas,” explained Mike Shafer, housing and community development lead for Community Action Partnership.
Applicants who qualify will receive funding for repairing a manufactured home, or money toward replacing a manufactured home that is beyond repair. The money may also be used for residents whose health and safety issues may be compromised by the conditions of their home. Moreover, renters who want to own a home must meet income requirement for the funds to be used towards the purchase of a new home.
“With this new funding, we will be able to repair homes and replace manufactured homes that are too far damaged,” Shafer said. “It’s an opportunity to help some people who have some real health and safety issues with their homes.” He said they are making the homes more resilient and helping people recover from April 29, 2011.
As MHProNews reported May 10, 2011, some 5,700 homes and buildings were destroyed or damaged affecting 13,700 people. ##
(Photo credit: Fox News–aftermath of April 2011 tornado in Alabama)
