Greater Matthews Habitat’s Critical Home Repair Program Surpasses $1 Million in Completed Repairs

At Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity, we believe that preserving affordable housing is just as important as building it. That’s why we’re excited to share that our Critical Home Repair Program has officially surpassed $1 million in completed home repairs since its launch in 2019.

This milestone represents more than just dollars spent—it reflects the hundreds of lives impacted, homes made safer, and families who can continue living where they’ve built their lives.

A Program Rooted in Community

When we first started the Critical Home Repair Program in 2019, it was funded solely through a Community Development Block Grant. Later that year, our partnership with Mecklenburg County unlocked additional grant funding, helping the program grow just when our community needed it most.

As the COVID-19 pandemic took hold, the need for critical repairs became even more apparent. We expanded our efforts to assist limited-income homeowners who faced urgent health and safety issues—like failing roofs, electrical hazards, or a lack of accessibility features—that threatened their ability to remain in their homes.

Building a Stronger, More Resilient Infrastructure

Today, thanks to a network of dedicated partners—including Mecklenburg County, the Town of Matthews, the Town of Mint Hill, the Centralina Council of Governments, and others—we’ve built a robust system that provides essential home repairs at no cost to qualified homeowners.

As Natisha Rivera-Patrick, our President & CEO, puts it:

“This milestone reflects the incredible collaboration of local government, regional agencies, and community partners who believe in the power of preserving affordable housing. Together, we’ve built a sustainable program that helps prevent displacement and ensures homeowners—especially our most vulnerable neighbors—can live in homes that are safe, healthy, and secure for years to come.”

How the Program Works

We know that home repairs can be costly and overwhelming, especially for homeowners on a fixed or limited income. Our Critical Home Repair Program helps address serious issues like:

• Unsafe roofs or flooring

• Electrical and plumbing hazards

• Lack of heating

• Insect infestations

• Accessibility modifications, like ramps or grab bars

Eligible homeowners can receive repairs at no cost if they meet certain criteria, including:

• Owning and living in the home for at least one year

• Having the deed in their name

• Meeting income guidelines

• Having homeowner’s insurance

• Being current on property taxes (or actively paying on a plan)

• Willingness to be present and involved during the repair process

We’re Still Accepting Applications

If you or someone you know could benefit from the Critical Home Repair Program, we’re still accepting applications! You can learn more about the qualifications and apply directly by visiting: greatermatthewshabitat.org/criticalhomerepair

Together, we can ensure more of our neighbors live in homes that are not just affordable—but safe, healthy, and built to last.