Applications open for free home repairs for qualifying Minnesotans Oct. 1

A local nonprofit is gearing up to provide critical home repairs at no charge to keep vulnerable Minnesotans safe, warm, and living independently in their own space.

Rebuilding Together Minnesota is opening its application window from Oct. 1 through Dec. 31, offering no-cost home fixes for qualifying older adults, military veterans, families with children, and individuals living with disabilities.

“We work with older adults and folks who live with disabilities so that they can have the grab bars and the ramps to get in and out of their home,” said Kathy Greiner, executive director of Rebuilding Together Minnesota. “Things to prevent them from falling.”

 For many homeowners, the repairs are essential for aging in place or navigating physical limitations. This year alone, the organization expects to complete 170 projects. 

To qualify for the program, applicants must own their home and be current on their mortgage payments. Eligible applicants must also be considered low-income as categorized by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, or candidates must earn less than 50% of the area median income based on their county and family size. With regional median incomes hovering around $90,000, a family of four earning approximately $45,000 would qualify for assistance. 

Beyond income, the nonprofit also evaluates household demographics during the selection process. 

“We look for what are the demographics in the home?” Greiner said. “Is there an older adult in the home? Is there someone younger than 18 living with a disability? All of those things we’re going to look at, and then once you fill out that application and we get you qualified, my team will work with you to do the modifications that you need to get done.” 

The application process is designed to be straightforward and takes about 15 to 20 minutes to complete. Homeowners will be asked detailed questions about their immediate household needs and any physical mobility challenges they face, such as difficulty navigating stairs. 

To prepare for the application window, Grenier recommends that homeowners gather their necessary documentation in advance, such as proof of income including federal tax returns from the last two years. Older adults who do not file taxes can submit their annual Social Security statements. Applicants can use property tax statements as proof of homeownership.

Once the application window closes and applications are reviewed, qualified homeowners selected for the program will receive a home visit. Rebuilding Together Minnesota staff will assess the property and collaborate directly with the homeowner to establish a project work scope. Past projects have ranged from resolving critical plumbing failures to replacing damaged roofs and constructing customized mobility ramps.

The online application is the fastest way to request assistance. Homeowners can apply or learn more about eligibility criteria by visiting the organization’s website at rtmn.org and selecting the "apply for help" link. 

Individuals who require a paper application can request one by emailing info@rtmn.org.