FSL weatherization program helps keep families in homes

PHOENIX (STN) – Across the Phoenix metro area, hundreds of families live paycheck to paycheck, just one unexpected home repair or high utility bill away from homelessness.

“Being told you couldn’t afford to stay here, it scared me,” said Annette, a Foundation for Senior Living (FSL) client and a recent recipient of assistance through FSL’s weatherization program. “It always sat in the back of my head.”

Available in all 50 states, the program is intended to help people struggling to make ends meet by covering costs for essentials like air conditioning, shade screens for windows, thermostats, insulation, and water heaters.

“Arizona has a huge need, just like any state in the United States, for weatherization. There are different measures, and air conditioning is a big one,” said Katie Martin, administrator of home improvements for FSL.

While the program can assist with and cover the cost of necessary repairs or replacements for major equipment like air conditioners or water heaters, the main benefit for clients is that an FSL home efficiency audit can help reduce their monthly cost of living.

“[We] put a scope of work together to repair those items in your home that might be causing your high utility bill,” Martin said. “We can come in and replace or repair them, and then you’ll see the savings in your next utility bill.”

The FSL weatherization program operates as part of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Weatherization Assistance Program. According to FSL, participants nationwide save an average of $372 per year on their utility bills. 

For Annette, who received a new air conditioner, sunscreens, and water heater through the program, the assistance was life-changing.

“It has lifted a huge burden off of me, and I’m just grateful,” she said. “I am super grateful for the program.”

For program administrator Katie Martin, success stories like Annette’s, and others, make it all worthwhile.

“Just recently, we helped a woman,” Martin said. “One of her kids had a medical condition, and after we did the weatherization work at her house, she sent us the best letter I think we’ve ever received. The single mom said she was able to buy her kids backpacks and school supplies for the first time.”

To qualify for assistance applicants must own their home and meet income requirements. For more information about the FSL weatherization program, click here.