Free Lights and Locks

Proper lights and deadbolt locks can provide needed safety for seniors or anyone for that matter. There are many programs that provide these products and their installation for free, or at great discounts. To find programs you may qualify for in your area, you must search: 1) your city or township government, 2) your county government, 3) your state government, 4) local non-profit agencies and local development corporations, as well as 5) your utility company. Make sure you check with all of the following offices for help in locating appropriate organizations in your area: 1) your local library, 2) your local elected officials, 3) your local United Way, and 4) all housing agencies in your area. Local government offices can be identified at www.govengine.com and your local United Way can be identified at http://national.unitedway.org/myuw/. You can also contact you local area office on aging by calling 1-800-677-1116 or go to http://www.aoa.gov/eldfam/How_To_Find/Agencies/Agencies.asp.

Listed below is a sampling of the types of programs that are available around the country. They should give you an indication of the kind of help that may be available in your area, too.

1. Free Grab Bars, Nightlights, Door & Window Locks For Seniors Up To $34,900
   Home Secure Program, Los Angeles, CA
   http://www.la4seniors.com/home_secure.htm
   
2. Locks And Lights For Seniors 60+
   Tulsa Area Agency on Aging, Tulsa, OK http://www.cityoftulsa.org/Community/TAAA/
   
3. Volunteers Will Install Locks & Motion Lights In Homes Of Seniors
   RSVP Triad Program, Work With Law Enforcement, La Crosse,WI http://www.rsvplacrosse.org/voluntr3.html
   
4. Installation Of Dead Bolt Locks Or Locks On Screen Doors Or Windows For 60+ With Income Requirements
   Senior Home Repair Service Champaign County, Urbana, IL http://helpbook.prairienet.org/new/w5157c5t.htm
   
5. Free Locks For Over 55 & Income Up To $27,150
   Senior Locks Programs, Portland Police Bureau, Portland, OR http://www.portlandonline.com/police/index.cfm?c=30679
   
6. Free Installation If You Buy The Locks
   Lock Program, City of Euclid Social/Safety Services, Euclid, OH http://www.ci.euclid.oh.us/residentinformation/socialservices.cfm

Income Eligibility: Family of 2 - $30,000. This varies by program and location; contact your local program to find out specific income requirements.