The Atlanta Habitat Repair with Kindness program is growing to help more income-qualified homeowners to complete critical repairs on their homes. A recent $450,000 grant from The Home Depot Foundation is helping to fuel the expansion to more neighborhoods.
Since its launch in 2016, RWK has been offered to non-Habitat homeowners in targeted neighborhoods; today, the program includes additional neighborhoods in Atlanta, East Point, and South Fulton County.
Atlanta Habitat uses certified, licensed subcontractors to perform the home repairs, which may include roof replacement to accessibility amenities, storm door and window installations, and other repairs that improve health, safety, or weatherization.
To be considered for the program, homes must be at least 15 years old. Additionally, homeowners should meet RWK income and other requirements, occupy the home full-time, and be in good standing with their mortgages, insurance, and property taxes. Homeowners also are required to be present while repairs are being made and contribute sweat-equity hours. Exterior home painting maybe available for homeowners who meet other qualifications.
“Our critical repair program targets homeowners who are the bedrock of many of Atlanta’s older communities. With the Home Depot’s help, Atlanta Habitat is changing the quality of their lives and fighting against displacement with so many communities under development pressure,” says Lisa Y. Gordon, Atlanta Habitat President/CEO. “There are times when members of our community have to choose between paying for home repairs or food, medicine or other basics. Through these services, homeowners may not have to make these tough choices. Atlanta Habitat is sincerely grateful for The Home Depot and its dedication to Atlanta Habitat families.”
The Home Depot Foundation donation enables the organization to help more homeowners and improve neighborhoods.
“We’re proud to work alongside our hometown partners, Atlanta Habitat for Humanity on such an important cause. We hope these joint efforts further our mission to revitalize Atlanta’s historic neighborhoods and continue to be positive for everyone involved,” says Jena Alford, manager of Atlanta Hometown Giving for The Home Depot Foundation.
