Today’s conversation on The Valley Today is part of an ongoing partnership with United Way of Northern Shenandoah Valley. Host, Janet Michael chats with Elise from United Way of Northern Shenandoah Valley and Kim Herbstritt from Blue Ridge Habitat for Humanity. Listen to the conversation by clicking here.

Kim gave us some background on her organization and explained how their affordable housing program works. She talked about the types of families they’re looking for and their transition from being an affordable home builder to an affordable home developer. The agency is still seeking families for homes that are under construction in Winchester & Strasburg. Get details and start the application process on their website: https://blueridgehabitat.org/

She also told us about their home repair program. Habitat’s Home Repair program is an extension of their mission to build strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter. It helps families maintain and stay in their homes and contributes to neighborhood stabilization and revitalization.  This program helps low-income families address repair needs in their homes by focusing on safety, accessibility and meeting municipal codes. By offering home improvements at an 80-95% reduction to homeowners, the program will help preserve and ensure safe, decent, and affordable housing in our community. Click here for more details and/or to fill out an application.

Kim also gave us details for an upcoming event: Facelift on Saturday, May 21, 2022. Individuals interested in volunteering or businesses who wish to put together a volunteer team can participate in the event which will focus on projects for homeowners in the north end of Winchester. All work will be exterior such as painting, landscaping, cutting back bushes, hauling junk, etc.

Before we wrapped up, Kim reminded us to shop the ReStore located at 400 Battaile Drive in Winchester. Their hours are Wednesday – Friday from 10am – 4pm; and Saturdays from 9am 3pm.

Elise gave us a quick rundown of upcoming United Way NSV projects and events including Project Connect, Day of Caring, and the Shenandoah Sprint Triathalon.