Building Independence Through Critical Home Repairs

Building Independence Through Critical Home Repairs

Ms. Patterson has spent her life caring for others and as a longtime preschool teacher, she has a deep love for working with children.

“I really love working with children,” Ms. Patterson said. “Plant the seed, water the seed.” 

Now, Ms. Patterson is transitioning into working with seniors, a role she describes as both challenging and meaningful. She sees the importance of helping people remain safely in their homes, listening to their stories, and offering support during difficult moments.

Ms. Patterson has owned her home since October 1998. Over time, safety issues began to affect both her home and her independence. After a serious fall, navigating her house became increasingly difficult. 

Through Habitat’s Home Repair program, Ms. Patterson is receiving extensive repairs designed to improve safety and accessibility. These include new stair and porch railings, a raised toilet, new bathroom flooring, exhaust ventilation, kitchen sink and cabinet replacement, and a new back window after vandalism left it boarded up. 

“I’m getting my stairs done to the basement,” Ms. Patterson said. “I’m getting a walk-in shower with rails and a seat in the shower. I’m getting the whole bathroom done.” 

For Ms. Patterson, the bathroom repairs are especially meaningful. Years without an exhaust fan and proper ventilation caused moisture buildup and slippery flooring, making the space unsafe after her fall. A new walk-in shower with grab bars and a built-in seat, updated flooring, and an exhaust fan will create a safer, more accessible space where she can move with confidence and independence.

By covering up to 80% of repair costs based on income with a 0% loan, the program helps homeowners like Ms. Patterson address urgent safety needs while remaining in the homes they love.

“These [repairs] are going to help me care for myself,” Ms. Patterson said.