Grant available to make bathroom easier to access

CITY OF SEAL BEACH

The City of Seal Beach Bathroom Accessibility Program has been approved for another cycle of funding. This means that as of July 1, the city started spending nearly $200,000 in grants to Leisure World residents for the Bathroom Accessibility Program.

For over 15 years, the City of Seal Beach has offered the Seal Beach Bathroom Accessibility Program to help residents modify their bathrooms. As of 2020, LWers with more than one bathroom are eligible. Furthermore, in special circumstances, a bench can be added to the fiberglass unit.

In the wake of COVID-19, the administration of this program has changed slightly. There will be no in-person workshops 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 an application. Simply email monique@civicstone.com for an appointment. People 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 for safer access. The fiberglass is refinished to look like new, and a custom 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 below $75,300 if you live alone, or the limit is $86,050 per year for a two-person household. Savings do not disqualify you.

“Many residents get confused about the application process,” said Monique Miner of CivicStone, which administers the program.

CivicStone was hired by the City of Seal Beach 15 years ago to facilitate the bathroom grant program.

“Residents don’t realize you can have substantial savings and still qualify for the free upgrade,” Miner said. “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.