Empowering Communities Through Home Repairs

Rebuilding Together Hudson Valley, previously known as Christmas in April and Rebuilding Together Dutchess County, is making significant strides in helping homeowners maintain their independence and dignity by providing essential home repairs at no cost. Darcy McCourt, a key figure in the organization, sheds light on the impactful work they do to ensure residents in the Hudson Valley can live in warm, safe, and dry conditions.

The organization, with a history spanning over three decades, focuses on rehabilitating homes rather than building new ones, leaving new constructions to their partners like Habitat for Humanity. Through a comprehensive 25-element assessment, Rebuilding Together Hudson Valley addresses various aspects of a home, from electrical systems to roofing and accessibility features. According to McCourt, "We look at water, electric, roofs, windows, drafts, heat, and more to ensure the homes we service meet our standards for safety and comfort."

The services provided are tailored to the specific needs of the homeowners, prioritized through a detailed checklist that includes ensuring good lighting, handrails, and proper heating, among others. "Homeowners often tell us they have just one or two priority needs, but when we conduct our assessments, we ensure all critical aspects are covered," McCourt explains.

Funded through a combination of state, federal, and local grants, as well as community support, the organization invites local businesses, contractors, and faith-based groups to sponsor homes. For a cost of $5,000, these groups can cover repair expenses and provide volunteer teams to execute the work, making a lasting impact in just one day.

For those interested in the services or looking to contribute to Rebuilding Together Hudson Valley's mission, Darcy McCourt encourages reaching out via their website at rebuildingtogetherhudsonvalley.org or by phone at 845-454-7310. Through community involvement and dedicated service, they continue to ensure that residents of the Hudson Valley have safe, accessible homes to call their own.

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