Baltimore Mayor Announces $9.6M In Housing Upgrades For Seniors
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- Grace Comer is 81 years young and has lived in her home for 50 years.
"I am so blessed, I really am," she said. "And my granddaughter, she was raised here, so it's like two generations."
In 2018, Comer took advantage of the city's HUBS program, which stands for Housing Upgrades to Benefit Seniors.
She had her floors replaced, her bathroom redesigned and a brand new heating system installed.
When asked why it was important to stay in her home, Comer said, "For me, it's because I'd rather be here than be anyplace else."
On Wednesday, Mayor Brandon Scott announced the investment of $9.6 million in this program aimed at renovating aging homes for Baltimore's seniors, who may not be able to make the repairs on their own.
"Allowing them to then one day pass their home, that they bought with their hard-earned working dollars, to the next generation so that we can build generational wealth across Baltimore City," he said.
Supporting seniors is important, said Alice Kennedy, housing commissioner.
"Our older adults are anchors within our communities and are a key piece of the fabric that makes up our neighborhoods," she said.
Comer and her late husband created a community garden next to their home. It greets you upon arrival and is one of the many reasons she plans to age in place.
"You're used to being here. I just love my home, I love my home," she said.
To be eligible for the program, you have to be 65 years or older and meet a couple requirements. The application is available here.
Senior homeowners in Baltimore interested in the HUBS program can contact the HUBS Hotline for intake at 443-470-9871. HUBS is also accepting referrals through the City of Baltimore's Department of Housing & Community Development Neighborly online application portal.
