Editor’s note: This article is Part 1 of a two-part series about home repair services from Harpswell Aging at Home.
“Others need it more than me.” “I don’t want to ask.” “It’s really not a problem.” These are some of the reasons people put off requests for home repairs from Harpswell Aging at Home. But those repairs can make a difference in how long you can stay in your home. Plus, everyone needs a hand sometimes. Experienced Harpswell Aging at Home volunteers look forward to making repairs that keep people warm, dry and safe in their homes, using supplies paid for by grants from Habitat for Humanity.
One bad fall could change your life. Why risk it? HAH repairs can lower your risk of falling and suffering a serious injury. “One of the people we worked with significantly reduced her fall risk after HAH installed railings, helped her get a walker, and provided a free call button,” HAH volunteer Judy Muller said.
Whether you have a hole in the floor or a window that needs fixing, HAH urges you to be proactive. To start the simple and confidential process, call Gina Caldwell at the Harpswell Town Office at 207-833-5771 ext. 108. Caldwell, recreation director and community services coordinator for the town, will be glad to help with your application over the phone.
Applicants must be over 55 years old and provide their gross annual income. Note that income limits are generous. You’ll be asked other questions, such as whether you rent part of your home and whether anyone in your home is disabled. Caldwell will inform HAH team leaders if you qualify, then team leaders will plan a visit to your home. Learn more about home repairs in Part 2, coming soon.
Karin Soderberg cannot speak highly enough of the home repairs she has received on four occasions. The team told her she was in control of what they did or didn’t do in her home.
“Repairs were seamlessly managed by a crew chief who also ordered the necessary materials and made sure the jobs were done properly and cleaned up,” Soderberg said. Thirteen items were addressed, including gutters, lighting, window flashing, and replacement of a rotten slider door.
Patty McGovern, who receives Social Security and a pension, was surprised that she qualified. Her back hall had no insulation, so she worried about the pipes freezing. She was cold all winter, having to wear a scarf and hat.
The HAH team moved McGovern’s thermostat to the back hall, where it should have gone 27 years ago. She could not be happier, and could not have predicted how much a thermostat could change her life. She no longer needs that hat and scarf.
HAH also installed a handrail in McGovern’s home and insulated the floor, among other projects. McGovern, grateful for the assistance, is paying it forward as a HAH volunteer.
