Greater Springfield Habitat recently began a new project and is fixing the Springfield home of Franklin, a former Army Reserve specialist fourth grade, who served eight years. The now 90-year-old veteran’s home, which was built in 1911 and has been owned by Franklin for at least 60 years, is in serious disrepair.
Franklin’s daughter, Theresa, reached out to Greater Springfield Habitat in May and September 2021, requesting home preservation services, but the program had temporarily closed due to a lack of funds. Yet, after the second phone call, Habitat staff ventured to the house to survey the damage and necessary repairs. GSHFH then connected with Habitat for Humanity International for assistance. Habitat International helped Greater Springfield Habitat access the US Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Veterans Housing Rehabilitation and Modification Pilot program to qualify this project. The federal program serves veterans and/or low-income individuals and provides grants to repair their primary residences so they can retain their independence without being burdened by the repair costs.
“There’s a crazy amount of water damage,” said Aimee Giroux, GSHFH executive director. “It must have been leaking for a long time.”
GSHFH subcontracted Westfield’s NexGen Roofing to replace the roof and sheathing. Theresa said she is grateful and extremely thankful to GSHFH and all it is able to do to help her father.
“We’re happy to support veterans for all they’ve given us, the sacrifices they made, and the dedication they’ve shown to our country,” Aimee said. “It’s the least we can do.”
To learn more about GSHFH’s Home Preservation program, visit habitatspringfield.org/home-preservation
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