This month, we reached a major milestone: completing 200 critical home repairs in a single year. This moment reflects more than growth—it marks a new level of readiness to meet the urgent housing needs facing Philadelphia homeowners today.
The affordable housing crisis is often defined by rising rents and limited paths to homeownership. But for many longtime homeowners, the challenge is keeping the homes they already have safe and livable.
Across Philadelphia, aging homes require essential repairs that many families—especially seniors, those on fixed incomes, and multigenerational households—simply can’t afford. These repairs aren’t optional. They prevent displacement, improve health, and preserve stability.
The most affordable home is the one you already own.
Meet Robin, Darlene, and Keith—three homeowners whose lives were changed through critical repairs. Their stories show what’s possible when safe, stable housing is within reach.
Our repair program began in 2011 as a small effort to address urgent safety needs. But as demand grew, it became clear that incremental growth wasn’t enough.
Three years ago, we made a bold commitment to scale.
Through strategic planning, investment in staffing and systems, and a focus on long-term impact, we doubled our annual repair capacity. Today, a dedicated team of project managers and an inspector oversee 10 distinct initiatives—organized by neighborhood, repair type, and funding source—allowing us to serve more homeowners across the city.
“Critical home repairs are how we make affordable homeownership sustainable. Our dollars go further and we make a bigger impact. We’re incredibly proud to reach this milestone of 200 annual repairs.”
Homeowners must have clear title and meet income requirements (up to 80% Area Median Income). Our team assesses each home to prioritize repairs that make it safe, warm, and dry.
Projects can include roof replacements, heating upgrades, accessibility improvements, and more—averaging $18,400 at no cost to the homeowner.
Through partnerships with the Philadelphia Energy Authority and the Philadelphia Housing Development Corporation, additional services may be available without a separate application.
“I can breathe easier. I am finally feeling safe and secure in my own home.”
Reaching 200 home repairs each year isn’t the finish line—it’s a stronger foundation.
With continued support, we can help more families stay safely housed, preserve generational homes, and build a more stable future for Philadelphia communities.