Manufactured Homes Owner Assistance Program Launched In HoCo

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — Officials from across several levels of government and from nonprofits together have launched an initiative to support lower income older adults with critical food access, housing, technology and information resources.

The Howard County Department of Community Resources and Services, Rebuilding Together of Howard County and the American Red Cross unveiled the Manufactured Homes Owner Assistance Program at the Elkridge Mobile Home Park. More than 70 residents of the community received prepared meals and food distribution boxes provided by Boston Market and Coastal Sun Belt as part of the inaugural outreach effort.

“Howard County is making tremendous progress in our recovery from the pandemic – businesses are open, events are coming back, jobs are available, and our rate of vaccinations is high. However, there are still individuals and families that need help with food, internet access, and home repairs,” Howard County Executive Calvin Ball said. “Thanks to our community partners, we will continue to offer food, vaccination shots and other assistance where people need it most across the County through programs like the Manufactured Homes Owner Assistance Program.”

MHOAP helps families to recover from challenges associated with pandemic economic recovery. In addition to weekly meal distribution access, eligible residents can receive information and resources in obtaining low cost broadband internet service; home repair support; home fire prevention planning, training and technologies; and connection to the county’s Maryland Access Point team for ongoing support and service coordination.

“While our communities and nation are still moving towards a safe, new normal in work and in life, many of our neighbors and friends benefit from resources to close the gap in essential areas of health and well-being,” Jacqueline R. Scott, DCRS director, said. “We’re proud of this coalition and its partnership on behalf of residents supporting equity throughout Howard County.”