March 4, 2015–A previously homeless mother and her children and survivors of domestic violence have new, updated places to live, thanks to two renovations managed by HomeAid Northern Virginia. The renovations, valued at $110,000, enable these individuals to get on the road to self-sufficiency.

 In January, HomeAid and BOWA completed a $62,000 renovation for Cornerstones, allowing a single mom and her two young children to move out of a shelter and into an updated home. BOWA, a three-time HomeAid Builder Captain, and its 14 trade partners donated 91 percent of their labor and materials.

 The renovations included: new flooring, paint and carpet throughout; new fixtures in a powder room and a completely renovated full bathroom; new granite countertops, kitchen appliances and cabinetry; upgraded electrical components; and power-washing outside.

 “The investment in the property is invaluable,” said Nicole de Lima Morris, senior asset manager for Housing and Community Development for Cornerstones. “Our housing stock is aging, and having significant, donated work like this allows us to save reserves and put additional funds into social service programs for the family.”

In February, HomeAid, Winchester Homes and 14 trade partners completed a $49,000 renovation for ACTS Turning Points Domestic Violence Program, transforming a small, inefficient kitchen into an expanded gathering place for resident families. 

Winchester Homes and trade partners gutted the kitchen; remodeled the powder room; built a dining bar to double the seating, added cabinets and storage; expanded counter space; and installed new flooring, countertops, cabinetry and appliances.

“This project has done a world of good,” said Dotty Larson, ACTS’ program director. “Many of our families don’t have relatives in the area, and they’ve come here to be safe … so it’s a huge boost for them to see members of the community doing something for them, and realize that there are people who care. A lot of our residents, especially the kids, needed this reminder that people are looking out for them.”