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is more conspicuous, extreme temperature also impact less visible groups such as the low-income elderly and disabled living in substandard housing. With incomes that do not cover the costs of the necessities of life, these individuals face a bitter choice between heat, shelter, food and medicine. i
Virginians filing a state income tax form can help these groups through the Check-Off for Housing Program. Taxpayers may designate all or part of their state income tax refund by entering an amount in the “Housing Program” block on their tax form. The program targets these special groups by applying 100 percent of the contributions to projects managed by local church, civic and other nonprofit groups.
In the past four years this program has awarded almost $600,000 statewide through 80 grants averaging nearly $8,000 each. Communities, recognizing members in distress, have improved housing conditions for elderly, disabled and homeless persons by installing or upgrading heating systems and waterAvastewater disposal systems, • replacing roofs, and installing wheelchair ramps.
Other projects have included physical improvements to homeless and domestic violence shelters, and the rehabilitation of property for use as a group home for mentally disabled adults. One group, assisting a low-income elderly woman whose dilapidated home was beyond repair, was able to build a replacement home through a Check-Off grant and locally donated materials and labor.
While this program facilitates donation from Virginians receiving tax refunds, others may donate by contacting: Check-Off for Housing Program, Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development, 501 North Second Street, Richmond, Virginia, 23219, (804) 371-7100.
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