(Left to Right) Kenn Baker and Charlie Sherman help project leader Don Laughlin put the gutter up to finish up a Habitat for Humanity Critical Home Repair project in Silver Lake.
(Photo provided)

According to Habitat for Humanity of Kosciusko County, a Silver Lake family no longer needs to worry about water making its way into the house after rainfall.

According to the Habitat for Humanity Critical Home Repair Program, the home began having issues with leaking when the addition of a carport and sunroom were added. The addition caused two leaks in the home, one of which was located in a bedroom.

Habitat for Humanity partnered with Lake City Bank and utilizing 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, CHR project leader.

The Critical Home Repair program is designed to provide urgent and major repairs to assist homeowners in prevention measures against being displaced. Applicants considered for these projects must meet specific criteria and the occupant of the home must be the owner. The home must also be below the median value for the county in order to be eligible. Once selected, applicants receive an interest free loan for the materials and contract labor necessitated. When possible, the group utilizes volunteers for building projects to attempt to keep home repair costs low.

The program assists many families with a variety of issues including critical repairs, “weatherization” and preservation. These repairs not only extend crucial home restoration to families in need, but help improve community neighborhoods by increasing property values.

Those interested in becoming a part of the Critical Home Repair team, making a donation or simply learning more about Habitat for Humanity of Kosciusko County may contact the Habitat office at 574-269-4104.