Habitat for Humanity of Southern Santa Barbara County is making critical home repairs that let many older homeowners stay secure in their homes and age safely in them (aging in place).
This work became especially important during the pandemic as so many individuals and families have had to stay home, highlighting that home is a haven for health.
Habitat Santa Barbara realized that while people must stay home to stay safe, their own home may need repairs critical to their wellbeing.
For Carpinteria senior Lori Ann Graham, getting safety upgrades for her manufactured home has been an unexpected gift.
Over the years, her home had become dangerous — a large hole had opened in the bathroom floor. Habitat Santa Barbara completed a variety of repairs at her property — internally and externally — adding to the long-term safety and preservation of her home.
“ I walk outside early every morning with my first cup of coffee, and to this day I still can’t believe this happened. Never does a day go by that the kindness and generosity of Habitat go unappreciated,” said Graham.
Habitat Santa Barbara’s home repair program helps individuals as well as the community.
“Home preservation maintains the existing stock of affordable housing in Santa Barbara, where the cost of living is nearly double the national average. Behind the façade of prosperity, many struggle to afford basic needs,” said Jessica Wishan, CEO of Habitat Santa Barbara.
A safe and healthy home affects many facets of a person or family’s health, such as housing stability, housing quality, sanitation and accessibility, all of which impact a person’s ability to age safely at home as their needs may change. Increasingly, home plays a central role in education, work, family life, and more.
Now celebrating 20 years, Habitat Santa Barbara has helped people build stability and realize their potential. Habitat has put 22 families in new houses and repaired some 150 residences from Goleta to Carpinteria.
For Graham, repairs such as paint, fencing and flooring made a difference in her life. “You have given me so much more than you know; you’ve replaced worry with peace,” she said in a thank you note to Habitat Santa Barbara.
To support Habitat Santa Barbara in continuing its mission, visit www.sbhabitat.org or call 805-692-2226.