AUBURN - A local non-profit organization announced this week that it will be offering opportunities for some county residents to improve their homes next year.

Beginning Nov. 12, Cayuga County Homesite Development Corp. will be accepting applications for their Home Repair Program. If accepted by the program, homeowners will receive approximately $20,000 in non-cosmetic home repairs. Repairs will include all structural deficiencies, lead-based paint hazards and energy-related deficiencies.

Work projects would begin spring 2008, and would take place over a two-year period, according to a statement released by Homesite.

The program is funded by a $500,000 grant from the New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal.

To qualify, clients must fall within an income range, own the property where they live and be current on taxes, home owner's insurance and their mortgage. Applications will be mailed Nov. 8, and anyone who is interested should call 253-8451.

Homesite also announced plans to revitalize a length of Orchard Street in Auburn from James to Columbus Streets.

The project would also begin in spring 2008 and would last approximately three years, according to the release. Homesite officials will attend an Orchard Street Area Association meeting at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 14, to discuss the plans with residents.

Orchard Street residents will need to apply for loans and grant funds for the program from various sources, according to Homesite. Homeowners or other agencies will also be responsible for 40 percent of the renovations, with Homesite covering the other 60 percent of the costs.

For more information on either program, call Homesite at 253-8451.