If the kitchen is the heart of a home, then the Loudoun Abused Women’s Shelter (LAWS) is getting a new lease on life. Starting in late May, builder captain Beazer Homes kicked off a home renovation project that will encompass the kitchen and other, smaller areas of the shelter. The project, estimated at approximately $12,000, will be covered 100 percent, with HomeAid Northern Virginia able to cover a portion of the costs through a grant from the United Way of the National Capital Area.

Gary Szebalskie, vice president of customer care for Beazer Homes Virginia, said the kitchen will get a major facelift with new cabinets and countertops, as well as any necessary plumbing work. Beazer and its trade partners will also update a handicapped shower and replace flooring in one bedroom.

Sue Curtis, executive director for LAWS, said, “All of us are thrilled that Beazer Homes and HomeAid are renovating the kitchen—for some of our families, this is the first time they have had a safe, nurturing place to enjoy their meals. This kind of generosity and concern also serves to remind families living in our shelter that there are people in the community who care and support them in their struggles to live their lives free of violence and abuse.”

This marks the sixth project with which Szebalskie has been involved, and Beazer Homes has played an important role in HomeAid’s mission since its founding 10 years ago. “We’re strong believers in giving back to the community, and even during the last few years, when real estate hasn’t been at the top of its game due to the economy, when we’ve asked for help with a HomeAid project, contractors have always said, ‘Yes!’ Everyone just jumps right on board, and it’s really refreshing to see.”