Community Mission for Improved Housing, Inc.
CMIH is accepting applications!
The mission of this public charity is to serve the Independence area* by helping the poor, people with disabilities, the elderly, and Veterans and their families repair their homes; building relationships among neighbors, and bringing hope and spiritual renewal to our community.
*The service area for CMIH is defined as a physical address within the city limits of the City of Independence, Kansas. This area of service will be reviewed annually.
Community Mission for Improved Housing, Inc., is committed to mentoring and guiding other communities to start their own home repair ministries. This will allow the ministry to be more effective in other cities.
Why is CMIH needed?
High living cost + low wages = little money for home repairs.
There are state and federal programs to help homeowners repair their homes. However, these programs are very specific and many who need help won't qualify for the state & federal programs. Others can afford the materials, but can't afford to hire the work to be done and/or can't do it themselves.
What is the process?
The homeowner completes an application for assistance. An inspection is completed on the property. If the project is approved, permits are obtained and the project is staffed with volunteers to complete the work according to city building codes. Once the project is completed, the homeowner is expected to help others repair their homes.
How is this funded?
Each project must be fully funded before the work begins. We look first at the homeowner's resources, then donated materials and cash donations. Some parts of projects may qualify for grants. The laborers, including office staff, are all volunteers
How can you help?
CMIH needs donations of funds and building materials. We also need licensed contractors to donate one project a year and many volunteers to do the repairs.