An area non-profit organization will receive approximately $3.7 million in federal funding to help build and subsidize low-income elderly housing in Kalispell.
Accessible Space, Inc., a non-profit that helps adults with disabilities and the elderly live independently in accessible, affordable housing, will get a $3.5 million capital advance from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the construction of 22 one-bedroom units for low-income elderly residences, according to a press release from U.S. Rep. Denny Rehberg’s, R-Mont, office. Rehberg is a member of the House Appropriations Committee, which oversees funding for HUD.
In addition to funding for the construction, Accessible Space will receive $219,000 over three years to subsidize the initial cost of rent, according to the release. Residents will pay 30 percent of their adjusted incomes as rent. To be eligible for the assistance a household must be classified as “very low-income,” which means an income less than 50 percent of the area median.
“This is welcome news for the Kalispell community,” Rehburg said in the release. “Montana’s low-income seniors can be among the most vulnerable, especially with increasing costs of energy and housing. This funding is an important step toward a long-term solution.”
Four of the units will be fully accessible with roll-in showers and kitchens for those residents with disabilities, according to the release. Special amenities include a community room, laundry room and patio area to encourage socializing for the residents and their families and friends. The project will employ Energy Star-rated furnaces, thermostats and appliances.