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Aging in Place Grant Applications OPEN!

Example of replaced handrail and stair treads

B.E.S.T. is pleased to announce a new grant program for residents of the Historic East Bayfront aged 50+. 

Through the Pennsylvania DCED's Neighborhood Assistance Program and generously sponsored by UPMC Health Plan, KnoxLaw, Marquette Bank, and Northwest Bank, the Aging in Place Mini-Grant program offer a free home audit and accompanying minor home modifications for qualifying applicants to help them remain in their homes longer and more safely. 

Through a home audit and conversation with the applicant by trained B.E.S.T. staff, older residents may receive up to $1,500 in minor home modifications aimed at increasing accessibility and safety. Such modifications can include replacing cabinet pulls with D-style pulls, installing lever-style faucets, indoor weatherization, repaired stair treads, handrail installation, grab bar installation, dawn-to-dusk porch light installation, or adjusting mailbox height. 

Sometimes the smallest modification can make a world of difference if it means being able to remain in your home and community longer and more safely.

This project is an extension of the AARP Community Challenge Mini-Grant that B.E.S.T. received in 2024 through which we were able to provide minor home modifications for 5 neighborhood residents.

Application Requirements:

  • Home must be the primary residence for the applicant, who must be aged 50+.
  • Residential properties only.
  • Resident property must be located within the Historic East Bayfront (Front Street to the north side of E. 6th Street, and Holland Street to the west side of the Bayfront Parkway. 

NOTE: Applications may be prioritized due to demonstrated need. 

Application Deadline: June 15, 2026

Applicants can access the application on our website by clicking here, or they may pick one up at our office.

 

B.E.S.T. makes Erie Better!

Beautification. Walkability. Home Repair. Increased exterior lighting. Public art. Food access. Connecting neighbors to available resources. 

Every dollar spent at B.E.S.T. helps increase property values, enhance safety, and continues to make the Historic East Bayfront a safe, affordable, and vibrant place to call home.  

We're where Erie began and where Erie is heading. Help us continue making Erie better. 

Our impact this year has changed our community!

  • Number of Volunteers this Year

    353

  • Volunteer Hours

    1703

  • Dollars Raised

    $44,350

  • Number of Individual Donors in 2025

    82

  • Pounds of litter removed from the neighborhood

    900.61

  • Trees Planted

    22

  • Total Grants Awarded to Home Owners

    21

  • Length of replaced sidewalks

    708.60 feet

Thank you to our generous sponsors, partners, and collaborators.

  • Erie Insurance
    Erie Insurance

    Erie Insurance

  • UPMC Health Plan

    UPMC Health PlanUPMC Health Plan

  • Northwest Bank
  • Marquette Savings Bank
    Marquette Savings Bank

    Marquette Savings Bank

  • KnoxLaw
  • Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority
    Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority
  • PA DCED
    PA DCED
  • Infinite Erie
    Infinite Erie

    Infinite Erie

  • Erie Community Foundation
  • NonProfit Partnership
  • Port Authority
    Port Authority

    Port Authority of Erie

  • Groundwork Erie
    Groundwork Erie

    Groundwork Erie

  • Mercyhurst University
    Mercyhurst University

    Mercyhurst University

  • Our West Bayfront
  • Redevelopment Authority of the City of Erie
    Redevelopment Authority of the City of Erie

    Redevelopment Authority of the City of Erie

  • Erie Land Bank
    Erie Land Bank

    Erie Land Bank

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