Home Repair Program Helps Indio Residents

Minor Home Repair Program restarts with success in Indio following COVID pause

INDIO —  Five homeowners are the benefactors of the city’s Minor Home Repair Program (MHRP). One resident who had  recently undergone heart surgery received a new, functioning air conditioning system.

One home, damaged by fire, was repaired.  Another home, nearly five decades old, received new shingles and insulation to help abate leaks.

“Seeing the huge impacts minor home repairs can make in the lives of those with a fixed income, or those who are home-bound is truly incredible,” Mayor Elaine Holmes said in a prepared statement.  “We are excited to make more positive impacts in our community among residents most in need of help.”

Indio’s MHRP launched in November of 2019 using Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) money to conduct small repairs such as plumbing, electrical, roofing and HVAC replacement.  Several recipients were selected, homes inspected, and contractors chosen.  However, due to the uncertainties caused by COVID-19 lockdowns, the program came to a halt in March 2020.

The program resumed in January 2021, with new inspections and proposals from contractors. Late this summer, final repairs were conducted at the homes of the first five participating residents, which included seniors and adults with disabilities.   In addition a new A/C unit was installed in time for summer, and two restrooms were remodeled.  The first to assist a resident who is wheelchair bound, and another who had difficulties getting in and out of the bathtub.

“One home had been damaged by a fire and the resident badly needed help with countertops for the kitchen and bathrooms,” said Juan Rodriguez, who manages the program as a Development Analyst for the City of Indio. “The last year had been especially tough for this man because of recent back surgery, cancer complications and the loss of his wife due to COVID-19.  In the end, he was so happy to see it all come together, and wished his wife was there to see how nice the kitchen looks now.”

Up to 20 additional homeowners will receive help this fiscal year through Indio’s MHRP, and more applications could be considered in a future round of funding.  For details on similar programs, go to the Housing and Neighborhood Services division on the city of Indio’s website.