Aroostook County Action Program, Inc. (ACAP) has announced that it has received a $6,000 Community Development Grant from Machias Savings Bank to fund home repair projects for low-income seniors in Aroostook County.
“We are deeply grateful for this gift,” explained Jim Baillargeon, ACAP Energy and Housing senior manager. “Funds from Machias Savings Bank will be leveraged with other sources of funding to complete projects.
“For example, federal and state funds require health and safety measures to be incorporated, and even with ACAP’s competitive bid process, those measures often exceed the per unit average and/or lifetime limits that are set by these funding sources,” Baillargeon said. “Additional funding makes certain that home projects are appropriately completed, ensuring seniors are safe, warm, dry and comfortable in their homes.”
By eliminating the burdens associated with the home repairs, Machias Savings Bank not only alleviates the financial weight on low-income seniors, they have assisted ACAP in helping to improve their overall quality of life. This is significant because it can reduce or prevent the need for their towns and families to employ other forms of costly support.
Machias Savings Bank is a community bank with a staff of over 230 employees who have a commitment to the economic development of the areas they serve. As part of that commitment, they have been providing Community Development Grants for 11 years.
For 44 years, ACAP has provided the people of Aroostook County with services and resources that help individuals and families achieve greater economic independence. As a leader, or in partnership with others, ACAP provides guidance to the community in responding to emerging human needs in the areas of community, family, energy and housing, and workforce development services.
For more information, visit www.acap-me.org or call 764-3721.
