Billie Townsend Women Build Committee Supports Critical Home Repair

At Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity, our mission goes beyond building new homes—we are equally committed to preserving the safety and independence of homeowners through our Helping Hands home repair program. Thanks to the incredible efforts of the Billie Townsend Women Build committee, we’re able to do both. 

In addition to raising funds for the construction of the Billie Townsend Women Build home, the Women Build committee generously raised additional support for a critical home repair project that will allow a homeowner to remain safely in his longtime residence. 

Homeowner Jonathan who has spina bifida and other health complications, has experienced growing challenges living alone, especially after the recent passing of his mother. The home, built in the early 1900s, has steep stairs, drafty doors, and other issues that pose serious safety concerns. 
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The primary concern is accessibility. The back entrance, currently the primary way in and out, includes three narrow steps without a grab bar or secure handrail. The sidewalk leading to the door is narrow, uneven, and slopes downward posing a fall risk. 

IVHFH’s Helping Hands staff plan to construct a wooden ramp that will provide safe, reliable access to the home. They will also replace the original front door, which no longer locks securely or keeps out the cold. Since Jonathan has relocated his bedroom to the front room on the main floor (due to difficulty accessing the second level), this drafty, deteriorated entryway has become a daily concern. A new, insulated door will reduce drafts while making the home secure. 
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This project is more than a repair--it’s a lifeline. Thanks to the generous donors who contributed to the Billie Townsend Women Build! With your support our neighbors like Jonathan can age in place, live with independence, and stay safely in their homes.

Do you or someone you know need help with home repairs? Contact Aaron at [email protected] or 319-337-8949. Learn more about the Helping Hands home repair program here.​

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