Funds are available to help fortify homes against the wind.

Written by Kristen Schmutz

Belden Communications News 

Volusia County’s Community Assistance Division announced it is currently accepting applications to help eligible homeowners upgrade their homes for improved wind resistance through the Wind Hazard Mitigation program.

According to a release, the Wind Hazard Mitigation program helps homeowners pay for shutters, gable-end tie-downs (also known as triangle or knee braces that reinforce the gable end of a roof), and upgraded garage doors on their homes. Household income cannot exceed 120% of the area median income for homeowners to be eligible as funds are limited for households at 80-120% of the area median income. The maximum assistance provided per household is $15,000, and homeowners will receive the funds as a five-year, zero-interest, deferred loan secured by a mortgage.

Owner-occupied homes in Volusia County are eligible, except within the city limits of Daytona Beach and Deltona.

For more information, visit www.volusia.org/affordable-housing or email Project Coordinator Courtney Fletcher at communityassistance@volusia.org to request a program screening.