Rochester City Council Approves New Funding for Homeowner Emergencies and Senior Services

The Rochester City Council announced two key housing initiatives Wednesday to support vulnerable homeowners and the city’s aging population, approving amendments to expand emergency repair services and boost "aging in place" programs.

Council President Miguel A. Meléndez Jr. and Councilmember Mitch Gruber introduced the amendments, which aim to improve housing stability across the city. The council unanimously approved an additional $200,000 to enhance the Emergency Assistance Program, which helps low-to-moderate income homeowners address urgent repairs, especially heating system failures.

“With this amendment, we are reinforcing our commitment to ensuring no homeowner is left in the cold,” said Meléndez. “When addressed quickly, these programs protect residents’ health, safety, and housing stability.”

Councilmember Bridget Monroe emphasized the need for immediate aid in her district. “We have an aged housing stock in the Northwest District, and many of our constituents face emergencies that impact their health and safety,” she said.

A second amendment, introduced by Gruber, allocates additional funding for services provided by Lifespan of Greater Rochester Inc. The organization offers aging-in-place support that allows older adults to remain in their homes longer, helping reduce reliance on institutional care.

“Over the past two years, we’ve seen reductions in allocations to this program, and Council has stepped in to maintain its continuity,” Gruber said. “This is an evidenced-based strategy that improves health outcomes, reduces institutional care demand and strengthens community stability.”

Vice President LaShay D. Harris echoed those goals, stating, “We’re working to make Rochester a city where you can grow old with dignity, independence and a strong sense of community.”

Councilmember Michael A. Patterson, Chair of the Neighborhood Jobs and Housing Committee, supported both measures. “As Chair, it is my duty to ensure that my neighbors can remain in their homes in a safe and equitable manner,” Patterson said.

Meléndez said the amendments reflect residents’ top priorities, particularly in a time of uncertain federal housing support.

“These targeted investments protect homeowners in crisis, support our seniors, and help secure a stronger future for our city,” he said.

For more information on program applications and eligibility, residents can contact:

·       Emergency Assistance Program: (585) 428-6883 or housing@cityofrochester.gov

·       Aging in Place Services: Lifespan at (585) 244-8400 or info@lifespan-roch.org

Eligibility Criteria for EAP:

·       Homeownership and Occupancy: Applicants must own and occupy a single-family home within the City of Rochester.

·       Income Requirements: Household income must be at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI), adjusted for household size.

·       Property Compliance: All properties owned by the applicant within the city must be code-compliant.

·       Tax and Mortgage Status: Applicants must be current on property taxes and mortgage payments or be in compliance with a city-approved payment agreement.

Eligibility Criteria for Aging in Place Services:

·       Age Requirement: Individuals must be 60 years of age or older.

·       Residency: Applicants must reside in Monroe County.

·       Medicaid Status: Individuals must not be eligible for Medicaid.

·       Functional Need: Applicants should have a functional need for assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, meal preparation, or housekeeping.