Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) -- the federal government’s housing agency -- has funds to help low-income seniors improve the safety, comfort and accessibility of their homes.

CMHC’s Home Adaptations for Seniors Independence (HASI) program provides low-income seniors with financial assistance of up to $3,500 to make minor home adaptations to improve a home’s accessibility as well as security. Some of the many adaptations that can be made to improve accessibility are: installing a ramp; lever handles on doors; grab bars; increasing lighting; and installing pull-out shelves in kitchen cupboards. To improve home safety, seniors can add security film or bars on windows or reinforce doors and replace locks.

To qualify for assistance from the HASI Program, at least one member of the household must be 65 years or over and have difficultly with daily living activities or be concerned about their personal safety. As this program is for low-income seniors, applicants must provide proof of income to qualify.

Assistance is in the form of a forgivable loan of up to $3,500. This loan does not have to be repaid provided that the occupant of the home agrees to live in the dwelling for the duration of the loan forgiveness period, which is six months. Landlords can apply on behalf of their senior tenants, provided that they agree to not increase rents as a result of the adaptations.

To find out if you are eligible, please contact CMHC at (604) 731- 5733 or toll free at 1-800-639-3938. The application deadline for this year’s funding is March 31, 2006.