2020 was quite a year! Despite the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, we were able to continue to serve our community and address the growing housing needs, thanks to the support of people like you and the hard work of our volunteers!
We temporarily suspended our work in Spring 2020 to allow time to develop and implement safety protocols. We developed a comprehensive set of safety precautions for staff, contractors, volunteers, and homeowners that incorporate information provided by OSHA, CDC, and our [Re]start initiative with Rebuilding Together’s National Office.
We are proud to share that our team:
- Provided accessibility modifications at 19 homes through our Safe at Home program.
- Made critical repairs to 49 homes through our Home Repair program, including 34 roof projects.
- Made improvements and repairs to two nonprofit facilities and community spaces.
- Launched our Construction Workforce Development Collaborative with a cohort of six youth from diverse backgrounds who completed 10 of our Home Repair projects.
- Initiated a collaborative effort with HandsOn Twin Cities, Tree Trust, and Heart of America to help areas affected by recent civil unrest recover – Twin Cities Community Rebuilding Coalition.
- Safely engaged more than 21 volunteers who gave approximately 2,156 hours of their time.
Our work had a direct and positive impact on 213 residents in our community. For example, we helped Noy in East St. Paul, who had a stroke and needs a wheelchair for emergencies, medical appointments, safe transportation, etc. One of our volunteer Ramp Teams constructed a ramp for Noy, making it possible for her to remain in her own home. This project has also alleviated stress for Noy’s family who is responsible for getting her in and out of her home for medical and other appointments.
A safe, functioning home is the basis for our quality of life. It sets us up for success with our family and our jobs and allows our communities to thrive. It strengthens us, keeps us healthy, gives us peace of mind and allows us to live our best lives. And, as the COVID-19 crisis showed us, being able to stay at home gives us the means to remain safe, impacting both our own health and well-being, and also the health and well-being of the entire community. We are very grateful for your support of our efforts to ensure that everyone in our community has a safe and healthy place to call home!
