A Brush With Kindness

A Brush with Kindness

In the summer of 2011, we launched A Brush with Kindness program.  We have long recognized that there is a tremendous need throughout Bennington County to help people who own their own homes but who do not have the resources to complete essential minor repairs, improvements, or to complete basic weatherization measures to make their homes safer and more energy efficient.

With this in mind, we looke for a few families who could benefit from this program who live in the Southshire.  Ultimately, as our financial and volunteer resources grow, we plan to offer this program throughout Bennington County..  People who wish to learn more should call 802-367-1000.  Click to download an application.

In the wake of Tropical Storm Irene, we helped a Manchester, Vermont family to restore the basement walls that had been destroyed by flood water.  The photos below show the basic work that we completed. 

These photos were taken at the start of the second ABWK project.  We are fixing the front entrance.  The front porch was not properly supported and the wood was rotten.  The back deck was rotten and unsafe.  We are replacing both, making the house safer.  Click to read letter of appreciation.

These photos were taken of the first project that we completed.  A ramp system was designed to enable the resident to gain access to and from a car to the home and also to the backyard.

Eligibility Requirements.  Applicants must:have

• lived in Bennington County for at least one full year at the time of the application
• own their own home
• earn no more than 60% of the median income for Bennington County ($37,000 for a family of four)
• be willing to help with the work
• be able to repay an interest-free loan for the out of pocket cost of the work over 1 - 7 years and
• Check back in May of 2012 for information about our ABWK plan for the summer of 2012.