The secretary for children and families shall hereby establish, maintain and improve, within the limits of funds appropriated therefor, including any grants or funds received from federal agencies and other sources, a program, the purpose of which shall be to aid the aged, the physically disabled and needy families in maintaining and repairing their respective homes. The secretary shall establish standards to determine the eligibility of persons to receive such aid. Such program shall be initially implemented for a period of one year in any county having a population of more than 150,000 and less than 180,000.