SILVER LAKE – A Silver Lake family no longer needs to worry about rain making its way into the house after receiving help from Habitat for Humanity of Kosciusko County’s Critical Home Repair program. The addition of a carport and sunroom caused leaks into two rooms in the home, one being a bedroom. In partnership with Lake City Bank, and using the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis’ Neighborhood Impact Program, Habitat was able to bring relief to the homeowner. More than 10 volunteers helped on this project under the direction of Don Laughlin, project leader. Critical Home Repair is a Habitat program designed to provide urgent and major repairs to prevent homeowners from being displaced. Applicants meet specific criteria and, once approved, receive a no-interest loan for materials and any necessary contract labor. Volunteers are used as much as possible in the labor process to lower the cost to the homeowner. The home must be owned by the occupant and be below the median value for the county in order to be eligible. All other regular Habitat criteria apply. Critical Home Repair projects considered by Habitat include: weatherization — energy efficiency retrofit; preservation — basic repairs to flooring, plumbing, electric and roof; critical repairs — multiple serious issue and/or structural problems. Families who are in need of assistance can contact the Habitat for Humanity of Kosciusko County office at 574-269-4104 for further information. This program is supported by volunteers dedicated to enhancing the community by extending crucial home restoration services to families in need. Another benefit to this program is the improvement to neighborhoods by increasing property values. Those interested in becoming a part of the Critical Home Repair team can contact the Habitat office at 574-269-4104.
