Mark Patton, November Program Coordinator introduced Scott Hawes, Executive Director of Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity. "Why Helping Hands"? The number of residents age 60+ has risen 37% since 2010. 30% of the homes in Johnson County are at least 50 years. 6000 homeowners are having a difficult time buying a home.
Conclusion: seniors need low-income homeowners for accessibility, aging in place, modifications, critical home repairs. Examples: Building a ramp for easy access to the outside of the home. Install walk in showers and high toilets. Family had carpeting; son had severe allergies to pet dander. The carpet was removed, and hard wood type flooring was installed.
Scott talked about ERMAR: Energy repair, appliance replacement. He showed a video for affordable housing. John Mckinstry was featured.
Scott and Theresa Burns talked about affordable housing being around $200,000. Theresa Said there may be multiple leans on the house. Many loans may be involved. Som forgiven, some no interest in order for the family to afford the home. Habitat for Humanity works with Homes for Iowa to build these homes.
President Jenny called the meeting to order at 7:05 am. AG Mark Ruggeberg had a Teddy Bear (Teddy) as he talked about the Free Medical and Dental Clinic Solar Project Fundraiser being held Saturday November 5th 4-7pm at Free Medical Clinic, 2440 Towncrest Dr. Iowa City. Theresa Burns talked about the Loteria Game Night and Silent Auction Thursday, November 3rd from 6-8 at Big Grove Brewery and Taproom, 1225 S. Gilbert St., Iowa City, IA 52240.
Meeting adjourned 8:00 am.