HAGERSTOWN – A new grant program introduced at this week’s City Council work session could soon provide critical relief to Hagerstown homeowners facing unexpected repair costs. The Middle Neighborhoods Emergency Repair Grant, funded with $75,000 in state Community Legacy funding, is designed to help working families who typically earn too much to qualify for federal aid but not enough to manage emergency home repairs independently.
The program, which is pending council approval on May 27, would cover 75 percent of eligible repair costs, leaving the homeowner responsible for the remaining 25 percent. In its first round of funding, it is expected to assist between five and seven households.
Targeting the ALICE population
The grant is aimed at what city staff described as “ALICE” households—Asset Limited, Income Constrained and Employed. These are families that earn above the income limits of most federal aid programs but still live paycheck to paycheck.
“They’re the families making ends meet, but one high-dollar emergency, like a roof leak or failed furnace, can push them into financial crisis,” said Rachel Paul, who helped present the program alongside Margie Joe from the city’s community development department.
Unlike the city’s existing Emergency Repair Grant Program, which is federally funded and limited to households earning no more than 80 percent of the area median income, the Middle Neighborhoods grant raises that limit to 120 percent of AMI, significantly expanding access.
Repair process mirrors federal program
Though the funding is different, the application and repair process will follow the city’s established model for emergency grants. Homeowners will be required to:
- Provide income documentation.
- Obtain three contractor estimates.
- Coordinate with the city’s community liaison, who will complete a scope of work to ensure consistency across estimates.
The city emphasized that while the process is detailed, the goal is to keep it streamlined and fair.
“We want everything to be clear and consistent,” said Paul. “That includes getting multiple bids, verifying income, and working through our liaison to avoid confusion.”
Faster help for urgent needs
Council members expressed support for the program but also pressed for quicker turnaround times. Councilwoman Erika Bell noted that some previous federally funded emergency grants took up to six months from application to completion – too long when homeowners are facing urgent problems like leaking roofs or heating failures.
Staff responded that although the process mirrors the federal program for consistency, state funding provides more flexibility and fewer restrictions. This could allow the city to speed up approvals where possible.
No city match required
Another benefit is that the Community Legacy funding requires no local matching funds. The entire $75,000 allocation will go directly toward repairs.
“This gives us a chance to help the folks who fall through the cracks – people who don’t qualify for federal aid but still need help,” said Joe.
The program also offers homeowners access to a list of prequalified contractors if they need assistance identifying service providers. However, applicants are also welcome to seek their own, as long as they meet the city’s bid requirements.
Applications May Open Soon
If the council approves during its May 27 regular session, the city will publish application materials and promote the program to residents. Staff members hope to prioritize urgent projects, particularly damage from recent storms or life-safety issues.
Residents are encouraged to contact the city’s Department of Community and Economic Development for more information about eligibility or the application process.
