Elizabeth Lutz | Author

Elyse Johnson | Editor

Published 10/16/2020

Partner Contractors:

Backstory:

Edrena is a Garland resident who suffers from Parkinson’s disease and seizures. Due to this limitation, she is no longer able to work — living month to month on very minimal disability checks. After paying all the necessary bills, Edrena has only around ten dollars to herself. This was not enough to put into savings for emergencies such as her roof. Edrena’s roof has been deteriorating for a few months, but because of financial restrictions, she was unable to do anything about it. A friend told her about Habitat for Humanity of Greater Garland (HFHGG), and she thought she may as well give it a shot and apply. She prayed about it, and thought that God may decide to help her in this way. 

The Assessment:

Soon enough, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Garland was out visiting her property to assess her repair needs. Through HFHGG, Edrena applied for the Special Needs Assistance Program through Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas. The grant provided financial assistance for a roof replacement, and HFHGG contacted their partner, Swan Roofing, to perform the repair. Swan Roofing replaced the existing 3-tab shingles with laminated architectural shingles, including a 30-year warranty. The entire construction process took just one day from start to finish! Edrena went to spend time with her sister and by the time she had returned, her house looked completely new. Edrena said “You have no idea how excited I was. I was like ‘Woahhhhhhhh!’”

After the Repair:

Edrena’s custom roof replacement is holding up perfectly, and she sees herself as “blessed beyond measure.” She was able to pick her own color for her roof, so the repair reflects her personality. She considered the HFHGG staff’s communication clear and effective, and felt like she was always well informed. 

Next Steps with Habitat:

Edrena is also eligible for an Amy Young Removal Grant, which covers repairs to the interior damage in her home that came from the leaking roof; this would include her cabinets and ceilings. She has applied and we are in the process of helping her with the interior. Additionally, she is eligible for a bathroom remodel to make her bathroom more accessible for her current needs! We plan on adding an accessible walk-in tub, sink, and shelves.

Damaged Roof

Figure 1.

Figure 2.

Figure 3.

When Habitat arrived on site, there were 2 active leak locations (seen above in Figures 1 and 2). Previous repair attempts were made with minimal success. Figure 3 depicts the finished roof replacement provided by Swan Roofing LLC.

I’d like to say how fortunate I am. The communication was amazing. I am so thankful. I am so very thankful. I would like to tell everyone how thankful I am. I’m very happy, satisfied, and thrilled with the staff. They all have been so very wonderful to me.

Edrena, Habitat for Humanity Critical Repair Homeowner