CAMILLA, GA — July 9, 2026 — The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission (SWGRC) is proud to announce the official launch of the Older Adult Home Modification Program (OAHMP). Backed by a $1,000,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), this impactful initiative will provide free, essential home safety and accessibility modifications to approximately 100 to 120 low-income senior citizens (ages 62 and older) across the region.

The program focuses heavily on rural, underserved, and persistent poverty communities across 14 counties. Eligible participants can receive an estimated $5,000 to $15,000 per household in low-cost, high-impact improvements tailored to their needs. Covered modifications include the installation of safety ramps, grab bars, handrails, door widening, and critical accessibility upgrades for bathrooms and kitchens. Changes will target crucial repairs to improve general safety, health, and energy efficiency.

To maximize safety outcomes, SWGRC is partnering with licensed Occupational Therapists (OTs) who will conduct personal, in-home assessments using specialized Home for Life Design digital software. This data-driven framework measures environmental barriers and customizes every repair plan. Approved, licensed contractors will execute the construction work, and all homes will undergo an inspection to ensure compliance with HUD, local, and historical preservation standards before a final homeowner sign-off.

"Our goal is to ensure that our senior neighbors can continue living in their homes safely, comfortably, and with dignity," said Barbara Reddick, SWGRC Deputy Director. "As an AARP-designated Age-Friendly Region, we are fully committed to bringing these vital resources directly to the families who need them most."

The program targets low-income homeowners and renters whose household income does not exceed 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI). Please see our website for income program requirements, (https://www.swgrc.org/OAHMP). Eligible individuals currently on existing housing waiting lists will be notified directly, and outreach is expanding regionally via newspapers and social media to reach historically marginalized groups.

Applications are being accepted and prioritized based on urgency and structural need. Residents in 14 counties and 43 cities are encouraged to apply Baker, Calhoun, Colquitt, Decatur, Dougherty, Early, Grady, Lee, Miller, Mitchell, Seminole, Terrell, Thomas and Worth. 

For more information, to check eligibility, or to request an application, please contact Jennifer Pittman, Intake Specialist, at (229) 522-3552 x118, Brenda Wade, Program Manager, at (229) 522-3552 x105 or visit https://www.swgrc.org/OAHMP to get program details and income limits.