Sioux Falls, S.D. (KELO AM) - It may be the best-kept secret in volunteering in the Sioux Empire.
The Home Builders Association has selected the 2017 Repair Affair grant winners, and Chairman Brad Mair says this year's applications were down from previous years. "In the past couple of years we have struggled to get the applications we were looking for. We try to get word out to Churches, non-profits, anybody that would be aware of families in need of these types of repairs and assistance," said Mair, appearing on KELO Radio's It's Your Business.
This year's project recipients include six homes that will be outfitted with wheelchair ramps. Smaller projects include replacing doorknobs with door levers and installing grab bars in bathrooms, or something as simple as installing or fixing a hand railing. "It's amazing seeing these people when we complete these projects. The relief, the smiles when they see what we've done," added Mair.
He went on to talk about the importance of the Repair Affair to the community. "People's homes, it's part of their identity. If they are no longer able to utilize their home or function on their own, they'll have to make alternate arrangements. This enables them to stay in their home and care for their relatives." Mair added that many times without these improvements, the homeowner would be looking at moving into a group home or assisted living setting.
To qualify, applicants must be age 65 or over, permanently disabled, or have a dependent that is disabled. The Home Builders Association say since the program began in 1993, over 200 projects have been completed.