Pasadena’s MASH Program Offers Free Home Repairs, Job Training

The City of Pasadena’s Municipal Assistance, Solutions, and Hiring (MASH) program is wielding an important on the lives of residents by offering a combination of job training and free home repair services. The multifaceted initiative aims to provide employment and skill-building opportunities while addressing the maintenance needs of low—and moderate-income homeowners in the city.

The MASH program employs men and women as maintenance and clerical trainees for up to two years, helping them gain valuable soft and technical skills across 12 different city departments.

To be eligible for the MASH program, candidates must complete an application and pass a written exam administered by the Human Resources Department.

In addition to its job training component, MASH offers free services to income-qualified homeowners, including wheelchair ramp construction, exterior lead-based paint stabilization and house painting, and support for Pasadena Water & Power’s Landscape Direct Install program. The program also provides fee-based services for homeowners, city departments, businesses, and local agencies.

The program assists low-income, senior, or disabled homeowners who are unable to perform deferred maintenance on their homes. This support is particularly crucial given that many housing units in Pasadena are over 50 years old.

MASH crews are also available to assist in emergencies, such as fires, storms, or earthquakes, providing critical support to the community. The program’s commitment to skill development and community service has made it a vital resource for Pasadena residents.

Applications for the MASH program are only offered once every two years, and interested individuals can fill out a “job interest card” at the Human Resources Department located at 100 N. Garfield Ave., Room S135.

To request an application, individuals can also email Hilda Acosta at hacosta@cityofpasadena.net.

For more information about the program’s services, contact Sherreeta White at SWhite@cityofpasadena.net or (626) 744-7628, or Hilda Acosta, the administrative specialist, at (626) 744-7627.

The MASH program operates Monday through Thursday from 6:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and every other Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The MASH office is located at 2783 Eaton Canyon Drive.