Habitat for Humanity's Critical Home Repair Program

We offer critical home repair services to homeowners
so they can continue to live in safe, decent homes for years to come.

Welcome to Habitat for Humanity’s Critical Home Repair Program! We are dedicated to improving living conditions and providing safe, decent, and affordable housing for families in need. Our program focuses on repairing and renovating existing homes, ensuring that individuals and families can continue to thrive in their communities. Join us as we make a lasting impact and create a better future for those in need.

This program is an initiative aimed at addressing critical repair needs of low-income homeowners. Our program focuses on making necessary repairs, modifications, and improvements to ensure homes are safe, energy-efficient, and conducive to a healthy living environment. By providing these essential repairs, we help families maintain the stability of their homes and prevent further deterioration.

Funding for the Home Repair Program comes from county and state grants, organizational grants and funding for veterans and donations from community members and businesses. Funding programs may require a forgivable loan, an affordable repayment plan or sweat equity hours through volunteer work or advocacy.

Critical Home Repair Applications are Closed

 Due to an overwhelming response and the program reaching full capacity, we are not accepting new applications at this time. Please check back for updates or follow our social media for notification on when the program reopens.  If you are experiencing a quality of life emergency, such as no hot water or no heat, please call our office at 815-759-9002 for further assistance. 

We appreciate your understanding and continued support in helping us build stronger, more resilient communities. 

Siding and Window replacement for Army veteran Landis' home.

In order to qualify for our program, you must:

  • Own and reside in the home in need of repairs

  • The home must be within our service area

  • Be up to date on taxes for the property

  • Be current on mortgage payments

  • Have homeowners insurance in force on the property

  • Require repairs that fall within the guidelines of the program

  • Have a household gross income under 80% of the McHenry County area median income (See income guide to the right.)

  • Be willing to agree to the terms of the funding programs utilized for your project. *Many funding programs have a property value limit. 

Income Guidelines 2024 (1)

Types of repairs the program assists with:

Critical Home Repairs

  • Roof repairs and replacements
  • Plumbing and electrical repairs
  • Heating and cooling system repairs
  • Foundation and structural repairs
  • Window and door replacements

Accessibility Modifications

  • Installation of wheelchair ramps
  • Widening doorways for accessibility
  • Installation of grab bars and handrails
  • Bathroom modifications for easier use
  • Chair lifts for multilevel accessibility

 

Please note, the Critical Home Repair Program is not designed to provide immediate emergency fixes. While the program aims to address critical repairs, it operates on a scheduled basis, prioritizing projects based on urgency, health, safety, accessibility and available resources. If you are in need of urgent repairs that pose an immediate threat to the health, safety, or accessibility of your home, it is recommended to seek alternative resources for emergency assistance. Dialing 2-1-1 in McHenry County will connect you to a call center that will direct you to an appropriate social service agency or nonprofit.

 

If you have any questions or need any assistance please contact our team at: info@habitatmchenry.org or 815-759-9002.