The Community Foundation of the Florida Keys’ “Up and Over” grant helps Habitat extend Critical Repair Program through Big Pine Key

Amy stands on her new, safe stairs leading up to her renovated deck in Big Pine Key

In December of 2023, Habitat for Humanity of Key West and Lower Florida Keys was awarded a grant of $15,000 from the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys to extend our critical repair program from Key West through Big Pine Key.

At Habitat Lower Keys, our mission is to build strength and stability through safe and affordable housing. Going beyond constructing homes and providing rentals, our critical home repair program recognizes the importance helping low-income families maintain safe homes, and of helping older adults age safely at home.

Many seniors in the Lower Keys, who are the foundation of our community heritage, are living on fixed incomes and cannot afford essential home repairs. We offer home repairs focused on safety and accessibility to ensure that they can continue to live comfortably in their homes. By evaluating homeowners' individual needs and offering home repairs and modifications specific to each homeowner’s lifestyle, we are not only ensuring their safety and well-being but also preserving their home and their independence.

Imagine being afraid to leave your home because your front porch and stairs are in such bad shape that it poses a significant risk to your family’s safety. This is the situation Amy was facing when she reached out to Habitat. Caring for two daughters of her own, as well as several local kids who stay with them periodically, she knew she had a duty to keep these kids safe. With the help of funding from CFFK, Habitat repaired the porch and stairs and alleviated Amy’s worry.

Amy was very happy with the results. "Our porch was definitely at a dangerous stage so we're very thankful!"