Habitat for Humanity of Chester County’s (HFHCC) Executive Director Chris Wiseman recently gathered with U.S. Representative Chrissy Houlahan and Bob Beggs from Good Works to see firsthand how the funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) is transforming lives.
Houlahan helped to pass the American Rescue Plan Act in 2021, and part of that bill would ultimately fund the Whole Home Repair Program. The group visited two homes in Coatesville — one belonging to a veteran’s family, where the love and pride they had for their home were palpable, and another belonging to Sandy, a senior whose home was damaged by a fallen tree.
“The [veteran’s] family was so incredibly grateful and welcoming and appreciative of all the work that had been done to make their home livable,” stated Wiseman. “It was lovely, and they clearly took great pride in what they had. … Not only had the father served but he raised three children who also served and had a daughter-in-law who served. There were also several cousins, uncles, and other family members that had served. There were enough pictures on the wall to start a small army.”
Sandy’s story also moved the group deeply; despite the hardships she faced, her resilience and gratitude shone through. Her request for a sewing machine led to a heartwarming moment of serendipity when a donated machine arrived just in time at the ReStore.
“Before the tree had fallen on her home, Sandy shared an unbelievable story with us about another near tragedy she faced,” said Wiseman. “Sandy was trying to get into her tub and slipped and fell. She didn’t have much mobility and was living alone. She couldn’t get out. She was stuck there for eight days. She survived by drinking water from the toilet (which she wanted us to know was clean because she had just flushed before getting in). Finally, someone asked for a well check and a firefighter came and was able to help her.”
Wiseman emphasized how those home visits and the simple act of getting Sandy a sewing machine filled him with a sense of gratitude that the HFHCC can help others in the community.
He explained, “A new home can profoundly impact a family’s life and future generations, helping them build wealth and achieve a stable middle-class status. Similarly, home repairs that ensure a senior can live safely, keep families warm in winter, restore hot water, or fix dangerous wiring are crucial for improving quality of life and safety.”
These visits underscored the true essence of HFHCC’s mission: making a tangible difference in our community. The Habitat for Humanity of Chester County is incredibly grateful for the support that makes this work possible and thanks everyone who has made this journey meaningful and impactful.
Learn more about the HFHCC and the Home Repair Program. HFCC is part of a global, nonprofit housing organization dedicated to eliminating substandard housing locally and worldwide through constructing, rehabilitating, and preserving homes; advocating for fair and just housing policies; and providing training and access to resources to help families improve their shelter conditions.
