RECAP and Port Jervis to Rehabilitate Homes with $515,000 in Grants

With an influx of grant money, the city of Port Jervis will rehabilitate 10 single-family homes with the help of the Regional Economic Community Action Program, a nonprofit charged with overseeing certain aspects of the rehab program.

The New York State Affordable Housing Corporation awarded a $350,000 grant, and the Port Jervis Community Development Agency awarded an additional $165,000 in grant money, totaling $515,000 for the city project.

“My board of directors and the Port Jervis Common Council were very supportive of the grant, collaboration with RECAP,” said Valerie Maginsky, PJCDA Executive Director, in a press release. “[This] was the first time the city applied for an AHC grant.”

The grant money will be used for roofing, electrical unit and heating unit upgrades on homes as well as for the weatherization of qualifying structures. With a maximum income eligibility of 112 percent of the HUD low-income limit for Orange County, a family of four with an income less than $74,458 can qualify for assistance.

RECAP, which works in Orange County to provide low-income families with resources to help with economic independence, will manage aspects of the renovations, including the weatherization of homes. Money for three of the homes will be allocated for seniors, veterans or households with disabled members.

“We have a lot of homes that need improvements and a lot of hardworking residents who could use some help,” Port Jervis Mayor Kelly Decker said. “It is a perfect opportunity to put these monies to work and is a perfect example of a combined community effort.”