BOONE, Iowa—Heart of Iowa Habitat for Humanity is seeking possible partners for home repair projects in 2019.  The home repair program is called Helping Hands and has been very popular in Greene County.  Volunteers in Boone County have done home repair projects in the past, but the last couple of years, the focus has been on new construction.  Next year, plans are to try and provide assistance to as many as ten-partner families for Helping Hands projects.

Erich Kretzinger, Executive Director for Heart of Iowa Habitat for Humanity, says the organization is actively seeking existing homeowners across Boone County to assist with external home repairs in 2019.  In addition to roofs, repairs might include painting, new siding, wheelchair ramps, wood repair, window and door replacement, gutters and downspouts and landscaping renewal.

Just like the home ownership program, eligible families selected for the home repair projects will repay the cost of building materials and services used on their projects through a zero-interest loan with low monthly payments over five years.  there is no charge for donated volunteer labor.

Just like with the new home construction, homeowners will be asked to provide sweat equity where they and possibly their family and friends work alongside Habitat volunteers doing the repairs.  Homeowners that are selected but are physically unable to assist will be able to participate in other ways, such as volunteering with organizations or helping to support Habitat volunteers with food.

Kretzinger also says that those that may need internal home repairs may be able to access a program that allows Habitat to partner with USDA Rural Development and possibly assist homeowners in applying for up to $20,000 in 1% interest loans.  Those 62 and older may qualify for a grant.  In all cases, private contractor perform the repairs and paid directly through the USDA Rural Development Program.

Kretzinger says if you or someone you know struggles to maintain and repair their home, Habitat for Humanity is offering a helping hand in 2019.  He says planning needs to begin now for next year.  Those that might be interested or need more information can call Heart of Iowa Habitat for Humanity at 515-432-1168 or stop at the downtown Boone office at 720 Story Street.  Kretzinger may also be contacted by email at director@heartofiowahabitat.org.  Information is also available on their website at www.heartofiowahabitat.org.

Habitat Helping Hands project home before work began

Habitat Helping Hands project after volunteers have completed work