Beaufort County neighborhood assistance program reports 43 homes served; $144,000 trust fund grant added to 2025 budget

Victoria Small updated the committee on the Neighborhood Assistance Program’s FY2024 activity, reporting the program had helped dozens of households with home repairs and septic services and that a new grant will add funds to next year’s budget.

Small said the program’s adopted FY2024 budget stood at $290,000 and that, as of a February 14 accounting, an adopted figure of $304,000 had been noted. Through May 30, Small reported 43 homes had been served this fiscal year: 17 homes received home repairs such as roofing and interior work totaling $259,402; 22 homes received septic pump‑outs totaling $8,757; and four received tree services totaling $7,780. Small reported the program’s current balance as $14,061 and said staff were reserving that amount for emergencies.

Small also announced that the program had been awarded $144,000 from the Beaufort Jasper Housing Trust Fund, funds she said will be added to the 2025 budget and are expected to support roughly 10 homes. She announced Golden Line Remodeling and Design of Hilton Head as a newly approved contractor for the town’s home repair work.

Committee members asked whether the additional funds would be added to the current pot or held for next fiscal year; Small said the $144,000 would be added to the 2025 budget and would not reduce the current year’s funds for active cases. Members discussed continuing septic pump‑out services — especially on islands — and the need to publicize the program so more eligible households can apply.

Small said the program will continue to adjust funds internally to meet urgent needs and encouraged the public and staff to monitor upcoming application opportunities.