Bathroom upgrade available for qualified residents through city grant program

CITY OF SEAL BEACH

The City of Seal Beach Bathroom Accessibility Program has been approved for another cycle of funding. This means that from July 2020-June 2021, the city can spend $145,000 on grants to Leisure World residents to continue the Bathroom Accessibility Program.

For over 14 years, the City of Seal Beach has offered the Seal Beach Bathroom Accessibility Program to help residents in Leisure World modify their bathrooms for safer access.

For the 2020-2023 funding cycle, there have been some exciting changes. Residents who have more than one bathroom are now eligible. Furthermore, in special circumstances, a bench can be added to the fiberglass unit.

Due to the threats of COVID-19, CivicStone, the administration of the program, will be changing the way it operates. It will not hold a workshop in any clubhouse for Leisure World residents this year. Instead, individual appointments can be made via phone, FaceTime, Zoom or Google Hangouts to ask questions and get individualized advice on how to complete applications. Simply email monique@civicstone.com for an appointment. Residents can also call (909) 364-9000, but email is preferred. All information is kept strictly confidential. Any Leisure World resident who has trouble stepping into the shower for any reason is likely eligible for a free bathroom upgrade. The Leisure World Bathroom Accessibility Grant converts the tub/shower combination into a shower-only unit for safer access. The fiberglass is refinished to look like new, and a new glass shower door enclosure is installed.

Toilets can be replaced with high-boy models, and grab bars may be added as needed.

The program is made possible through a grant from HUD, Orange County and the City of Seal Beach. To qualify, applicants must be over 55 years of age and have an annual income as follows: One person, $71,750; two people, $82,000; and three people, $92,920.

The City of Seal Beach hired CivicStone 14 years ago to administer this program.

“Many residents get confused on the application process,” said Monique Miner, program administrator. “Others don’t realize you can have substantial savings and still qualify for the free upgrade. We are just a phone call away and can help residents apply for the completely free upgrade. But don’t delay completing your application, because funds are limited.”

For more information, email monique@civicstone.com or call (909) 364-9000.