Harlingen, TX (KRGV) — The city of Harlingen received a $275,000 grant for its Housing for Texas Heroes program to help veterans make their homes safer and more accessible.

The city expects the funding to help at least seven beneficiaries.

The program helps veterans with low incomes and eligible surviving spouses pay for home repairs, modifications and weatherization. That includes improving accessibility, fixing dangerous housing conditions and keeping the elements out of a home.

To qualify, applicants must meet the program's income requirements. Veteran applicants also must own their homes outright, use them as their primary residence and be current on property taxes and home loans.

Last year, the city helped 16 veterans through the program and used all of its funding during the 12-month grant period. Officials say they plan to stretch this funding by looking at each applicant's needs instead of automatically giving the maximum amount of help.

The city said that other grants totaling more than $200,000 are also available to help veterans with bills like rent, utilities and food.

Applicants must visit the city's Community Development Department to apply for either program. The city typically approves applications in five days once applicants submit all required documents.

Applications are accepted on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. You must apply in person at 502 East Tyler Avenue.