The Bessemer Emergency Home Repair Program is a true service to residents living in the city. Bessemer, known for its rich history and industrial roots, is a suburb of Birmingham, Alabama. The diverse community boasts many neighborhoods, communities, and affordable housing options. However, for some residents their homes have fallen into disrepair and they simply cannot afford the fix.

Bessemer, Alabama: Who lives in The Marvel City?

The most recent Census Data shows Bessemer, known as The Marvel City, has a population of 25,890 people. Nearly 8600 of these residents are senior citizens above the age of 65. The median household income, $34,953, is much lower than the state average, and the 32% percent of residents living below the poverty line is much higher than the Alabama’s average as well.

Bessemer incorporated as a city 137 years ago on September 9, 1887. Many historic homes built during that are still standing across the city. Right now, median home values in the area are around $118,600.

City of Bessemer Partnership

The City of Bessemer received a Community Development Block Grant of $250,000 which helps fund the Emergency Home Repair Program. Navigate Communities partnered with the city to execute the repairs on 20 aging homes for low income seniors through the city program.

The program focuses on critical repairs to improve residents’ quality of life and maintain homes’ structural integrity. Contractors addressed key areas like repairing roofs, HVAC systems, plumbing, and ADA Accessibility. The specific repairs included:

• 7 Roof Replacements
• 2 ADA-Compliant Ramps
• 2 HVAC System Upgrades
• 5 Bathroom Remodels
• 4 Plumbing & Electrical Repairs

Emergency Home Repair Program Testimonials

Bertha Thomas submitted an application with the Emergency Home Repair Program. She’s lived in her home for more than seven years with a set of steep front stairs. She’s a caretaker for her brother who has health problems, and the stairs proved to be challenging for the family and for first responders in times of emergency. The Thomas’ application was approved and the family now has a beautiful ADA compliant ramp to get them in and out of the home.

“My brother has Down syndrome and before I was afraid for him to go up and down the stairs so now he loves his ramp. He loves his ramp.”

Bertha Thomas, Homeowner

Across town, Gwen Wilson was born in her home. She estimates it was built more than 80 years ago. Leaks in the bathroom required a complete rebuild down to the floor joist. Now, Ms. Wilson has a brand new ADA compliant bathroom that she says is much more safe for a senior citizen.

“I stay in there longer than I ever have in my life, you would think I was going to turn into a seal.”

Gwen Wilson, Homeowner

Leaks were also a major problem for Ms. Betty Bryant. For years, water trickled through the roof of her home. Contractors had to replace layers of wood in the roof due to water damage. Now, she says she loves the new roof and says her insurance on her home has already gone down.

“It looks so good. I’ve gone down there and looked back up at it and thought mmm it looks good.”

Betty Bryant, Homeowner

Click Here for more information on The Bessemer Emergency Home Repair Program and the application process.