Home Repair project delivers more than money for resident
- Sep 19, 2007 - comment
SOMERVILLE, Tenn.—Rural Development area specialist James Futrell and members of First Baptist Church here recently joined Inez Simmons to celebrate a special homecoming marking the completion of renovations and much needed improvements to her Somerville home.
“When my husband became too ill to work several years ago, we had to move out of a home that had been provided through his former employer for more than 20 years,” said Simmons.
“We owned a small house that we had bought back in 1976, but when we inspected it with the idea of moving back there, we discovered that it needed many more serious repairs than we could afford.”
The Simmons’ daughter heard about Rural Development assistance available to help elderly or handicapped residents in rural areas make critical repairs or improve access so they can continue to live independently in their own homes. Futrell helped the Simmons complete the application process for Rural Development assistance and also made them aware of additional funding available through Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA), which matched the $7,500 Rural Development grant.
Unfortunately the $15,000 in grant funds was still not enough to complete all the needed repairs. Deacons from FBC, Somerville, where the couple has been long time members, became aware of their plight and began working in partnership with Futrell. First Baptist Church and Fayette Baptist Association contributed an additional $6,000 and provided volunteer labor and other donations of equipment and supplies. In the end, under the leadership of deacons Earl Dowdy and Bobby Morris, the Simmons’ house was made safe, livable, and accessible with a new roof, electrical wiring, septic system, central heating and air, energy efficient windows, and numerous repairs to walls and floors.
“My husband passed away before we were able to move in,” said Simmons. “But he would be so happy to know that I can live in dignity and take care of myself.”
Simmons continued, “I cannot thank them enough, the members of First Baptist Church, Fayette Baptist Association, the other churches of all denominations, the dealers and individuals who contributed materials and labor. And I have to give a hearty thanks to Mr. Futrell and Rural Development, and to THDA for making this possible. Together they’ve given me more than money, they’ve given me peace of mind.”
“For many of us, being able to go to sleep each night in a safe and comfortable home is something we take for granted,” Futrell said. “At Rural Development we are committed to helping as many people as possible achieve the American dream of owning and maintaining their own home. I hope others in need will call on us to help.”
Rural Development’s housing programs are designed to increase homeownership by assisting eligible families and individuals in purchasing or building an affordable home in rural areas of Tennessee. Loans and grants are also available to help elderly or handicapped people make needed repairs or improve access so they can live independently in their own home.
USDA Rural Development is committed to the future of rural communities in Tennessee by providing financial and technical assistance through housing, community, and business development programs. In fiscal year 2006 Rural Development assisted more than 467,575 Tennessee families and businesses with more than $288 million in financial assistance through loans and grants.
This article is reprinted from the September 19, 2007, issue of Baptist & Reflector, the newsjournal of the Tennessee Baptist Convention.
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