Helping Hands Keeps Community Members Home

Critical Repairs Restore Safety, Independence and Dignity for Coralville Homeowner

Through Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity’s Helping Hands home repair program, homeowner Marilyn was able to make accessibility modifications and critical home repairs. Living by herself at 74 years old, she needed the home modifications and repairs in order to continue living safely in her home.

After a prior double knee replacement, ongoing complications left her in significant pain and unsteady on her feet. With another surgery ahead, her doctors made it clear that until key home modifications and repairs were made, Marilyn would be unable to be released back home from a rehabilitation facility.

Problem: Unsafe and Inaccessible Home Entrance​
Marilyn's home sits just over four feet above the driveway, and the entrance steps had become increasingly dangerous. The incline leading to the steps created strain when Marilyn walked from the driveway to her entrance. The routine required significant effort and balance, which had become difficult and unsafe, and Marilyn had fallen on several occasions. 

Helping Hands Solution: To create safe access to her home, Helping Hands staff designed and constructed a custom accessibility ramp. With multiple landings and a walkway meeting ADA slope and grade requirements, the ramp provides a stable way to enter and exit her home safely.

Problem: Inaccessible Bathroom
​Marilyn's home only has one bathroom. With her increasing mobility challenges, the bathroom was inaccessible and put her at risk of falls. The bathroom had a high-step-in tub, making it difficult and unsafe for her to bathe independently.

Helping Hands Solution: Inside Marilyn’s home, we completed a major bathroom remodel, replacing the high-step-in tub with a low-clearance, accessible shower. By also installing grab bars, the modification reduces the risk of falls while supporting Marilyn’s ability to move safely, confidently, and independently within her home. 

Problem: Plumbing Leaks
​In addition to accessibility concerns, Marilyn's home had plumbing issues that were affecting her daily life and the condition of her home. The leaking plumbing had also damaged drywall. If left unaddressed, this could cause further damage and more health concerns. 

Helping Hands solution: Helping Hands carried out critical home repairs to fix Marilyn's plumbing, allowing her to use water and maintain her home. Helping Hands staff also replaced the drywall to address the damage caused by the leaking plumbing. Addressing these underlying issues ensures the home stays safe, functional, and healthy for years to come.

HOW YOU CAN HELP
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Donate to support necessary home repairs for members of your community. 

Donations to Helping Hands go to removing the barrier to safe, decent shelter for those with insufficient income through critical home repairs, accessibility modifications, and emergency repairs (ERMAR). 

Together, we build home again.