If you are a veteran with a disability, you may face some challenges in your daily life at home. You may need help getting in and out of your house, moving around your rooms, or using your appliances. You may need more space, better lighting, or a safer environment. Whatever your needs are, there is a program that can help you make your home more accessible and comfortable for you and your family.

The Veterans Housing Rehabilitation and Modification Pilot Program (VHRMP)

The VHRMP is a joint initiative of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). It aims to help veterans with disabilities live independently and comfortably in their homes. The program provides up to $6.4 million in grant funding to nonprofit organizations that can modify or rehabilitate eligible veterans’ primary residences.

According to HUD Secretary Marcia L. Fudge, “VHRMP grants will help veterans with disabilities continue to live in their own homes and communities – where they belong. These grants will not only make veterans’ homes more accessible but also improve their quality of life.”

VA Secretary Denis McDonough echoed this sentiment: “VA is committed to ensuring our nation’s veterans have safe and accessible housing. This grant program will provide veterans with disabilities the opportunity to remain in their homes and live as independently as possible.”

Types of Modifications or Rehabilitation under VHRMP

Some examples of the types of modifications or rehabilitation that VHRMP can fund are:

• Installing ramps, handrails, grab bars, or other accessibility features
• Widening doorways, lowering countertops, or modifying bathrooms or kitchens
• Repairing or replacing roofs, windows, doors, floors, or plumbing
• Improving energy efficiency, ventilation, or insulation
• Adding or expanding bedrooms or bathrooms
• Installing lifts, elevators, or other assistive devices

VHRMP Qualifications

One of the most important steps to apply for VHRMP is to check if you are eligible for the program. To be eligible, you must meet three main criteria:

• You must be a veteran who owns and occupies your primary residence. This means you have served in the U.S. military and live in the house you want to modify or rehabilitate. You cannot apply for VHRMP if you rent your home or plan to sell or move out of your home after the modifications or rehabilitation are done.
• You must have a disability that is service-connected, non-service-connected, or incurred or aggravated in the line of duty. This means that your disability is related to your military service, either directly or indirectly.
• Your income, as determined by HUD, must not exceed 80% of the area median income. This means your household income must be below a certain threshold, depending on where you live and how many people live with you. You can find the income limits for your area on the HUD website here.

If you meet these eligibility requirements and want to apply for VHRMP, visit the HUD Exchange website through this link.

The deadline for applications is August 31, 2023. Don’t miss this opportunity to make your home more comfortable and accessible for you and your family. Apply today and let VHRMP help you live independently and with dignity in your home.