Helen Goodner just got a new roof put on her house … for free.
No, it wasn’t a gift for her 75th birthday, which she’s celebrating today, but for participating in the Weatherization Assistance Program funded by the federal Department of Energy (DOE) and the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP).
Operated by the East Central Kansas Economic Opportunity Corporation (ECKAN), the weatherization program ensures residents across 16 southeast Kansas counties are living in homes that are safe and energy efficient.
As evidence, the cost of repairs to Goodner’s house clocked in at around $11,000. Those connected to the program will do whatever it takes to achieve their goals.
“There’s been a lot improved,” said Goodner, speaking of the recent work.
The retired nurse found out about the program from someone at her church, and before long, Boren’s Roofing in Iola was on the job.
“It needed put on right away,” Goodner added. “It was an old roof.”
It was even possible to fit your fingers through certain cracks and feel the outside air, she said.
Goodner noted that “I always try to help out who I can,” and so she was pleased to see someone do the same for her.
She intends to spend her birthday with her daughters, Tina Marie and Barbara Ann, but like most of us these days, doesn’t have big plans.
“I’m staying home and that’s it,” she said.
So how does one go about participating in ECKAN’s weatherization assistance program?
The Register spoke with Jeremy Graham, program director, in order to uncover the details for all things WAP.
For starters, the program requires proof of income.
For a family of one, the maximum income to qualify for aid is $25,520; for a family of two, $34,480; for a family of three, $43,440; and for a family of four, $52,400. (Additional figures can be found online.)
Those who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), or Low Income Energy Program (LIEAP) benefits automatically qualify.
