Brush Up
Brush Up – an organization that provides free home painting to low-income families – wishes to paint as many houses as possible during an annual community event in August. The event, which unites hundreds of volunteers and brings people together not just to paint homes, but to uplift the community, is looking for paint and other supplies so the volunteers have everything they need to do their valuable work.
Why It Matters
When money is tight, many seniors are forced to prioritize food and medicines over costly home maintenance. Over time, a home’s condition may deteriorate, along with its value. Paint is one of the more commonly deferred, expensive maintenance items for low-income elderly homeowners, even though paint helps extend the life of wood and slows decay and deterioration. Wood on the exterior of a home that is not protected by paint will deteriorate, rot and warp over time, creating devaluation and even health hazards.
The Impact
The elderly frequently face a very difficult choice: Remain in their homes which are typically paid for, or sell them and pay rent for senior housing. Seniors face this difficult choice at a time when they are living longer, their income is shrinking, and their healthcare expenses are typically increasing. Their dilemma is further exacerbated as caring for and navigating their homes becomes more difficult. Project nominators tell Lowe’s an estimated 58,345 homeowners age 60 and older living in Douglas and Sarpy Counties are cost-burdened. That’s why it is their honor to convene volunteers to assist these vulnerable citizens, paint their homes at no charge, and help them feel valued in the best place to retire... their own homes!
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