In February 2022, Jessi and her 11-year-old daughter were struggling to maintain their 2006 doublewide manufactured home on an income of less than $20,000 a year.  The home, plagued by years of deferred maintenance and a leaking roof, had severe ceiling damage and compromised flooring. Jessi had removed the damaged flooring, leaving only sub-flooring for her and her daughter to walk on.

Seeking assistance, Jessi applied to Rebuilding Together Thurston County (RTTC). Using local grant funds, RTTC addressed several smaller but essential repairs: lighting, plumbing, safety upgrades (including smoke and CO2 detectors and a fire extinguisher), vents, exterior painting, and more. However, the critical issue of the leaking roof remained.

RTTC turned to the USDA Rural Development Housing Preservation Grant program and secured an $11,155 grant to replace Jessi's roof. The new roof was installed in August 2023, just in time to protect Jessi and her daughter from the harsh Northwest winter. The installation of the new roof was a turning point, allowing RTTC to secure additional funds from a long-time supply partner to repair the sub-floor and install new flooring throughout the home.

Early in 2024, Jessi's father suffered a serious medical issue, leading to an extended hospitalization. As he recovers, plans are being made for him and Jessi's mother to move into Jessi's home, where she can provide the necessary emotional and medical support. This crucial family support would not have been possible without the new roof funded by the USDA grant and the subsequent repairs it facilitated.

Thanks to the support from USDA and RTTC, Jessi's home is now a safe and secure environment for her daughter and parents, showcasing the profound impact of community and federal assistance programs.

Story by Trudy Teter, Director of Single Family Housing