Greater Fox Cities Habitat for Humanity is launching a major recovery effort aimed at helping 100 families impacted by the recent tornado return to safe, comfortable homes before Christmas.
The organization, best known for building affordable housing, plans to use its construction expertise to repair tornado-damaged homes across the community. The initiative will focus on replacing roofs, windows and doors, along with repairing other exterior damage.
CEO John Weyenberg said many homeowners are finding that insurance payouts will not fully cover the cost of repairs.
“There are many households in this community whose insurance coverage just is not sufficient,” Weyenberg said. “For example, a household may have depreciating roof coverage, and so they’re getting $10,000 from their insurance company, but it’s going to cost $20,000.”
The goal is to complete the work by Dec. 15, allowing families to be back in their homes and settled before the holidays.
Weyenberg said the organization recognizes that rebuilding after a disaster can take years, but the immediate focus is helping residents get through the coming winter.
“Disaster recovery could take many many years. So we’re prepared for that. Habitat’s ready to step forward and fill that gap,” he said. “But right now we want to take care of these immediate needs and make sure that at least 100 households are safe and comfortable over the winter.”
Habitat officials say the project is designed to address urgent repairs that will help homeowners remain in their homes while longer-term recovery efforts continue.
The organization hopes the initiative will provide critical assistance to families still struggling with the financial and physical challenges left behind by the tornado.