CITY OF ARLINGTON | Grants Management Annual Report 2025 31
COMMUNITY IMPACT HIGHLIGHT
HOME REPAIRS RESTORE COMFORT AND DIGNITY
For one East Arlington couple, a forgivable loan of $ 22,813 through the City’ s housing rehabilitation program brought life-changing improvements.
Their home, built in 1955, lacked essential amenities— including central air and heat. The couple relied on a small window unit during scorching summers and outdated Dearborn heaters in the winter. Their roof leaked badly, the oven was nonfunctional, only two stovetop burners worked, and the electrical panel posed a serious fire risk.
The couple had faced significant challenges. In 2008, the husband was diagnosed with permanent kidney failure and underwent dialysis three times a week for eight years before finally receiving a kidney transplant. The toll on his health was immense, and complications from diabetes left him with limited eyesight. In 2023, they learned about the City’ s home repair assistance program and applied, hoping to at least get their leaky roof fixed.
What they received went far beyond their expectations. In addition to a brandnew roof, the rehabilitation included a new HVAC system, upgraded windows, a safe electrical panel, a new accessible shower, and a fully functioning stove.
At the final inspection, the couple was overjoyed.
“ Everything we received from Arlington Housing was so much a blessing,” said homeowner T. Villa.
They proudly demonstrated how the new windows blocked outside air and shared their excitement over having a working stove for the first time in years.“ I can now make biscuits— I’ ve made them every day since the stove was installed. I love it!”
This story is a powerful reminder that safe, functional housing can restore dignity and independence— one biscuit at a time.