DETROIT – The Heat And Warmth Fund -- otherwise known as THAW -- is kicking off the MI Neighborhood program in the Yorkshire Woods Community.
THAW offers wrap-around services in addition to utility assistance to help people get back on track. The nonprofit has handed out $216 million in assistance to nearly 300,000 homes since it started in 1985.
“We’re helping families like the one I grew up in,” said THAW CEO Saunteel Jenkins.
Overall the hope is to improve the long-term health and financial security of the neighborhood via the pathway of home rehab and renovation. THAW was awarded $471,000 to make the transition repairs. And Brandi Howard is lucky number one. Lucky enough to be approved to have the work done on her house -- and finding out on her birthday.
“I couldn’t ask for anything more,” Howard said. “To be able to make my home safe and livable. Not only for me, but my daughter. This is such a blessing.”
Homeowner and Yorkshire Woods Community Organization president, Mose Premus is extremely proud to have his home renovated as well.
“With other communities around us, we felt like we were left out. This put us on the map. I’m very happy that a lot of neighbors are getting rewarded with these gifts. It’s a welcome to the neighborhood,” said Mose.
“Without someone to help level that playing field, I wouldn’t be standing here talking to you today. So that’s why this is so important, because it makes a difference for folks today, and for our future” Santeel added.
The organization hopes to expand to help others. More information can be found on its official website here.