Gerald is a Vietnam War veteran that served from 1966 to 1969. He has owned and lived in his Lansing home for 18 years. However, his modest home needed numerous repairs to fix small problems that slowly became worse over time.
Although he is often able to financially support the routine maintenance and repair to his home, his income does not allow him to afford more costly repairs. Recently, the most major repair that Gerald needed for his home was a furnace replacement. He financed it with a $4,000 loan that he is still repaying.
Before
When Gerald came to Habitat Capital Region, his roof was leaking and in dire need of replacement. When it rained, there were 5-6 places that leaked from the ceiling. Gerald would put buckets out to catch the water.
Continuing to live safely in his home is very important to Gerald for many reasons. It would have been difficult to find an alternative living situation that would cost him any less on a monthly basis. Plus, he was recently hospitalized and needed a healthy home environment to continue his recovery.
After
Gerald partnered with Habitat Capital Region to repair his home which now has a new roof, renovated porch, new siding and windows, a new tankless water heater and other upgrades thanks to a multi-agency collaboration.
This critical home repair has made it possible for Gerald to remain in his home long-term. He now has the security to refocus on the good things in his life, without the constant burden and worry of an unsafe home.
Gerald, Habitat Repair Partner, outside his newly repaired Lansing home of 18 years.
“This has truly been a life-changing experience. I’m really enjoying my newly improved home and getting back into the swing of things. My home is now a breath of fresh air," said Gerald.
Veteran Build Affiliate
In the last three fiscal years, Habitat Capital Region helped 12 veteran households in the Capital Region repair the place they call home. Now more homes of veterans like Gerald are safe to continue living for years to come.
At Habitat Capital Region, we believe every veteran deserves a safe, decent, and affordable place to live. That is why Habitat Capital Region is a Veteran Build Affiliate. We are dedicated to intentionally serving and engaging veteran and active duty military households in all areas of our work, including housing help, employment, and volunteer engagement.
