Supporting Older Americans through OAHMP: A Q&A with Bene Dombasi

The Coalition for Home Repair supports home repair nonprofits through professional development, advocacy, and grants. 

In 2024, CHR was awarded $1,000,000 for the Older Adults Home Modification Program (OAHMP), offered by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. This award supports the implementation of home repairs in Kentucky. 

Bene Dombasi is the CHR program manager for the OAHMP program. This Q&A showcases the success of current implementation and her role supporting not only members, but our work to advance age friendly housing nationwide.

In one paragraph, can you share information about the program? 

OAHMP (Older Adults Home Modification Program) is a federally funded initiative focused on helping older adults age safely in place by supporting home modifications that increase accessibility and reduce fall risk. At the Coalition, we manage the program by partnering with subrecipients across the state who conduct home assessments, coordinate with occupational therapists, and implement modifications directly in clients’ homes. Our role is to ensure smooth program delivery, compliance with grant requirements, and that services meet the needs of older adults in Kentucky communities.

What is unique about this program?

OAHMP is unique in that it combines evidence-based aging in place strategies with on-the-ground partnerships, allowing organizations to deliver highly customized home modifications that are responsive to the needs of each individual. It also includes an intentional focus on equity, ensuring that services reach underserved and rural populations who often face barriers to accessing these types of supports.

How is the current implementation?

Implementation is going well across the state. We’re seeing strong engagement from subrecipients and meaningful outcomes for clients—especially in terms of increased safety, independence, and peace of mind. There have been some early challenges with timelines and contractor availability, but overall, the program has built strong momentum and is becoming a model for aging in place efforts.

What needs in KY are these funds meeting?

OAHMP funds are helping address a critical gap in safe, affordable housing modifications for older adults particularly in rural areas where aging in place options are limited. These funds are directly improving quality of life by reducing fall risk, enhancing mobility, and allowing Kentuckians to remain in their homes longer, safely and with dignity.

Who are the current subrecipients? Where can someone go to learn more about their work?

Our current subrecipients are Housing Development Alliance, Frontier Housing, Partnership Housing Inc., and St. Vincent Mission. Each of these organizations brings deep community knowledge and experience in housing and aging services. To learn more about their work and the impact they’re having through OAHMP, you can visit our website or contact us directly for partner spotlights and stories.

Can you share a bit about you and how your role supports subrecipients?

As Program Manager, I oversee the day-to-day operations of OAHMP at the Coalition, including providing technical assistance, facilitating reporting and compliance, and serving as the primary point of contact for subrecipients. I work closely with each partner to troubleshoot challenges, share best practices, and ensure consistent, quality service delivery statewide.

How does your role support the Coalition's broader aging in place goals?

My role helps advance the Coalition’s aging in place goals by ensuring that OAHMP is not only implemented effectively, but that it aligns with our larger vision of creating livable, age-friendly communities. Through data tracking, partner engagement, and advocacy, I help connect this work to policy conversations and broader systems change efforts.

If someone is interested in applying this model in their community, or pursuing OAHMP funds, what advice would you give them?

Start by building strong local partnerships and understanding the specific needs of older adults in your community. Engage occupational therapists and contractors early, and be realistic about timelines. Most importantly, focus on person-centered solutions modifications should be tailored to each individual's situation. And don’t be afraid to reach out to other organizations who have implemented the program for guidance.

About Bene