PA home repair

The Whole-Home Repairs program in Pennsylvania, designed to assist homeowners with essential repairs, did not receive additional funding in the latest state budget, leaving approximately 18,200 applicants waitlisted due to overwhelming demand. Created in 2022 with bipartisan support and initial funding of $125 million from federal pandemic aid, the program addresses significant home issues such as leaking roofs and broken windows while also enhancing energy efficiency and accessibility. Governor Josh Shapiro had proposed an extra $50 million for the program, which he touted as 'off the charts successful', but the final budget negotiations excluded this funding. Critics, including advocacy groups, express disappointment, arguing that the lack of funding exacerbates vulnerabilities among families relying on this support. The immediate effects of the funding shortfall will vary by county, with some having already exhausted their available resources. Pennsylvania's aging housing stock, with a significant portion built before 1940, further underscores the need for such repair assistance.