A Home Full of Memories: Keeping Albert and Julia’s Home a Haven
For Albert and Julia, home isn’t just a place to live—it’s where they’ve built decades of memories. At 69, they’ve spent over 40 years together in the same house, making it their home since 1985. It was their first home, the place where they raised children, welcomed grandchildren, and now watch their great-grandchildren grow.
Albert, an Army veteran, enlisted during the Vietnam era but was stationed in Germany. After leaving the military, he pursued a career in electrical engineering. Over the years, his skills helped him and Julia handle many home repairs themselves. They replaced water heaters, fixed plumbing, and reinforced their deck.
But as time passed, maintenance became more difficult. Since retiring six years ago, Albert and Julia have been living on a fixed income. Albert was especially concerned about the rotting fascia board at the front of their home. He knew delaying repairs could lead to bigger problems, but the cost made it hard to address.
How Habitat DeKalb Helped Albert and Julia Stay Safe
That’s when Albert and Julia reached out to Habitat for Humanity DeKalb. His cousin had received home repairs from another Habitat affiliate, so he decided to apply. When they were approved, the couple felt immediate relief. “This takes so much pressure off of us, especially financially,” they shared.
With the help of generous donors and dedicated volunteers, Habitat DeKalb provided:
- New gutter spouts to redirect water away from the foundation, preventing further damage.
- Deck steps rebuilt to code, making their entryway safer.
- Grab bars installed in the bathroom to improve stability and reduce fall risks.
Now, Albert and Julia can continue living in the home they’ve cared for all these years. They still love their quiet neighborhood, where they’ve known many of their neighbors since the 1980s. They also take pride in passing down their knowledge by reminding their children to stay on top of home maintenance.
Because of supporters like you, homeowners like Albert and Julia can continue living safely in the homes they love. Donate or volunteer today to help more families in need of critical repairs.