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A Brush with Kindness
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What is A Brush with Kindness?
A Brush with Kindness is a program of Cedar Valley Habitat for Humanity that helps low-income homeowners by offering exterior home improvements. Volunteer teams work to improve the condition of homes by painting, landscaping, and performing minor exterior repairs at minimal costs to homeowners who would be unable to complete home repairs on their own. Able-bodied homeowners are encouraged to work alongside the volunteers in a cooperative effort. This program is for homeowners earning 50 percent or less of the median income for their county (please see Income Guidelines).

How Do We Work?
Supplies and skilled labor are offered to homeowners via no-profit, no-interest loans. These loans cover project costs up to $1,500, with a second loan, forgivable after 3 years, bearing any additional costs. The payments on these loans are put into a revolving Fund for Humanity to pay for other Habitat for Humanity projects. To encourage homeowners to begin saving as soon as they are accepted into the program, those able to pay up front receive 50% off the project cost.

Am I Eligible?
Applicants who wish to participate in A Brush with Kindness must:

  • Own and occupy a home that needs and could benefit from short-term exterior improvements.
  • Meet the income guidelines outlined in this brochure.
  • Be willing to partner with Habitat to complete Sweat Equity hours.
  • Be unable to complete home repairs otherwise due to age, disability, or circumstance.
  • Own and occupy a house in Linn or Benton county.
  • Possess current homeowner's insurance.

How Do I Apply?
Applications for A Brush with Kindness are available for download below.  To receive a hard copy of an application, please call the Habitat office at 319-366-4485 or e-mail Habitat at familyservices@cvhabitat.org, and an application will be mailed to you. In order to complete the application, you will need to provide copies of the following items:

  • Your last four pay stubs or other proof of income.
  • Name, mailing address and telephone number of your current employer.
  • Your most recent tax return.
  • Proof of child support and/or public assistance (SSI, Social Security, Food Stamps, etc), if you receive them.
  • Proof of home ownership (this may include the Deed of Trust or your most recent property tax receipt).
  • Proof of current homeowner's insurance.
A Brush with Kindness Documents
Document A Brush with Kindness Informational Brochure
Document A Brush with Kindness Application
Complete the application and return in person or by mail to the CVHH office.
Document A Brush with Kindness Non-Resident Co-Owner Waiver
Complete the application and return in person or by mail to the CVHH office.

If you would like to learn more about A Brush with Kindness, please call (319) 366-4485 or email americorps1@cvhabitat.org today!

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