CHICAGO — Low-income homeowners in certain neighborhoods on the West and South sides can apply for a forgivable loan to make their homes more comfortable and lower their energy costs.
Elevate Energy's initiative is in its second year, after it helped make repairs on 36 homes in 2016 through the city's Micro Market Recovery Program.
The program will help pay for repairs like attic insulation, roof installations and boiler replacements through forgivable loans up to $8,000. Grants will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
"It's about saving money and you'll be able to have a cozy home this fall and winter," Elevate spokeswoman Emily Robinson said.
Robinson said Elevate Energy’s efficiency programs on average cut 15 to 30 percent off of utility bills.
The program covers 13 Chicago neighborhoods: Auburn Gresham, Austin, Belmont Cragin, Chatham, Chicago Lawn, Englewood, East Garfield Park, West Garfield Park, Grand Boulevard, Hermosa, New City, North Pullman, West Humboldt Park, West Pullman and West Woodlawn.
Applicants must live within the program's boundaries and meet income requirements.
