Starting my internship with Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity was different from what I expected as a Social Work major. At first, I didn’t fully understand Habitat’s mission or how much they really do. Many people know Habitat for building homes, and like I once thought, assume they are given away for free (they’re not). But Habitat also offers programs like the Critical Home Repair Program, which can make just as big of a difference.

Early in my internship, I visited a home where these repairs were changing someone’s daily life. A homeowner was having trouble getting up and down the stairs, and the only bathroom in the house was on the second floor. This made everyday tasks difficult and unsafe. I got to see the beginning stages of the repair team turning a first-floor patio into a bathroom, making the home safer and more accessible.

This experience really opened my eyes. What might seem like a simple repair can mean so much more. It showed me how important it is to help people stay in their homes.

The impact of this work goes far beyond fixing a house, there are strong community benefits! When people can stay in their homes, neighborhoods keep their relationships, trust, and sense of belonging. There are also mental and emotional benefits. Having a safe and accessible home can reduce stress, support independence, and help people feel respected and secure.

There are financial benefits too. Making repairs early or adapting a home is often much less expensive than moving, needing long-term care, or dealing with emergencies. By investing in repairs, Habitat is helping not just individual homeowners, but also the long-term strength and stability of entire communities.

This truly reshaped my understanding of how IHHFH serves the community. It is not just about building houses, it is about ensuring that people have the opportunity to remain rooted in the places where they belong.

Eligibility criteria for the Home Repair Program are as follows:

You must own the home where the repairs are to be made.

You must occupy the home as your primary residence.

You (or a member of your household) must have a need that makes the requested repairs necessary.

Your household income must fall below 80% of the Area Median Income by income verification.

Eligibility Criteria Continued:

Those receiving Home Repair services must make their home accessible during repair work. 

Any able-bodied members of the household must be willing to contribute sweat equity and help during the project (where applicable).

Applicant must demonstrate willingness and ability to contribute a down payment based on a sliding scale. 

Live within the service area of Iowa Heartland (Black Hawk, Bremer, Butler and Buchanan counties).