GASTONIA, N.C. — For homes in Gaston County that get some much-needed help, it’s a complete transformation.
“The need is great. We always have more requests than we do funds to answer those requests. We’ll probably get 100 applications for one grant,” said Marc Bolick, the project manager for Gaston County’s Housing Rehab Department.
“There are a lot of houses that were built in the 1950’s, 60’s, 70’s. There’s lead, asbestos, radon issues, and such in some of them. You have some environmental issues. we do a lot of roofs, floors, structural, water, sewer, electrical,” he explained.
The department works with home rehab grants for senior citizens, disabled people, military veterans, and single-parent households. The county said there’s a huge need for those aged 62 and up.
“We have spent well over $2 million and rehabbed over 100 homes here in Gaston County,” Bolick said.
Norma Adams was one of the recipients. The department replaced her bathroom, carpet, windows, and front door. They also helped improve energy efficiency to help lower her power and gas bills.
In an interview with the housing rehab department, Adams said she feels safer.
“I used to have a bar up against my door. I don’t have to use that bar anymore. I feel safer. I let my windows up,” she said.
Bolick called the department’s efforts a win-win.
“Any time we can allow that homeowner to remain in their home it saves everyone. It allows them to stay in their home safely and with dignity, but it also has a direct savings to Medicare and Medicaid costs on the bottom line,” he said.
He said it’s also a labor of love, and it's getting noticed. In October, the department received statewide recognition at the NC Affordable Housing Awards.
If you have a home in Gaston County and need help with rehab, click here to learn how to apply.
Contact Nick Sturdivant at nsturdiva1@wcnc.com and follow him on Facebook, X and Instagram.
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