BRCA Housing Program                                                                                                            Shelter is one of the basic needs for every family.  Blue Ridge Community Action recognizes that inadequate/substandard housing affects the health and well-being of a family, and also affects the ability    of children to learn and grow.  BRCA has developed a comprehensive Housing program designed to meet housing needs within the community.  Whether its weatherization assistance that is needed, home repairs or affordable home construction, BRCA Housing Specialists help families and individuals assess their housing needs, then match needs with the appropriate programs.  

  Housing programs include:

Weatherization Assistance 

 BRCA provides free weatherization assistance to income eligible residents in Alexander, Burke, Caldwell, and Catawba counties.  Assistance includes repairs to homes to conserve energy, make homes more comfortable, and help lower utility bills.

Urgent Repair Program 

The Urgent Repair program supports the Weatherization Assistance program, providing funds for additional repairs such as roofing and electrical wiring, which protects or enables the weatherization work.  The Urgent Repair program also provides handicapped accessible modifications for homeowners with special needs.

Substantial Rehabilitation

Substantial Rehabilitation is provided when BRCA receives grants from agencies such as NCHFA - Home Funds and Housing Preservation Grants.  These funds are awarded to agencies based on distressed counties, needs, and recipient being able to provide matching monies.  Repairs include electrical wiring, plumbing, bathrooms, heating system, roofs, structural repairs, windows, doors, and all phases of needed repairs.  All units are to meet housing quality standards when repairs are completed.

Rental housing        

BRCA provides affordable rental housing in Burke and Caldwell counties to income eligible families.  BRCA also links families to additional services provided by BRCA and area agencies.  All units meet energy conservation standards, reducing tenant utility bills.

USDA Rural Development    

BRCA partnerships with USDA Rural Development to provide home repairs to home owners in Alexander, burke, Caldwell, and Catawba counties.  BRCA does the initial application to qualify persons for low interest rate loans and grants when available.  BRCA does all packaging which includes applications, scope of repairs to be made, writing of repeir specifications, and bid process to local contractors.

HARRP

(Heating Appliance Repair and Replacement Program)

BRCA shall repair, replace, or perform energy conservation measures or primary heating systems for income eligible clients in Alexander, Burke, Caldwell, and Catawba counties.  All participants must also be served under our Weatherization program to qualify.