Yet, for some families, a home can become a place of struggle and hardship. That’s the reality for an elderly couple in McKinney, whose health has deteriorated alongside their home’s condition. Over the years, the couple’s house has slowly fallen into disrepair, becoming increasingly unsafe and unsanitary.
Thanks to Habitat for Humanity’s Critical Repairs project, this couple now has a lifeline. The project aims to replace their deteriorating home with a new, safe and accessible house, offering a fresh start.
Habitat for Humanity steps in
Habitat for Humanity’s Critical Repairs project is part of Habitat for Humanity’s ongoing initiative focused on helping families who face housing insecurity.
The couple, both of whom struggle with severe health problems, now have an opportunity for a fresh start—thanks to this project.
The couple’s current living situation, involving hazardous air, unsafe conditions and a lack of essential utilities such as gas and insurance, has added to their stress. With chronic illnesses such as diabetes, lung disease and high blood pressure, the challenges of their day-to-day life have become overwhelming.
The new home will not only be structurally sound but will also include features that enhance accessibility and comfort, and provide essential elements picked by the couple to support their health.
"The family was given the opportunity to choose from several floor plan sketches, ensuring their new home meets their specific needs," CEO Shonda Schaefer said. "We don’t always get to offer families the chance to pick their home’s design, but when we can, it’s so important. It allows them to be part of the process and ensures the home truly supports their needs."
A new beginning
For the couple, this new house represents far more than just a roof over their heads. It’s a fresh start—a safe and stable environment where they can live without the constant fear of their home falling apart or having to make do with the lack of essential services.
“One example of the challenges they faced at home was having to cook on an electric burner placed on top of the stove because they didn’t have gas services,” Schaefer said. “She spent 20 years serving students in the cafeteria at Webb Elementary, but at home, she struggled just to cook for her own family.The new home will make a significant difference in her daily life and overall well-being.”
The project also highlights Habitat for Humanity’s broader impact on communities. By providing a safe, supportive environment for families facing overwhelming challenges, the organization strengthens not just individual lives but the entire neighborhood.
“When we provide a safe, stable home for people, we create a ripple effect that strengthens the fabric of the whole neighborhood,” Schaefer said. “This home will not only help this family thrive, but it also ensures the community remains a place where everyone can live with dignity.”
A community effort
While demolition and rebuilding efforts are underway, Habitat for Humanity continues to seek support from the community to help complete the project. Whether through volunteering, donating or spreading the word, there are many ways to make a difference.
“We’re incredibly grateful for every donation we receive,” Schaefer said. “Every contribution makes a difference. Recurring donations are especially helpful because they help us plan more effectively. But it’s not just about giving—advocacy is crucial too. We encourage people to spread the word, as raising awareness is key to making a lasting impact in our communities.”
For those interested in volunteering, visit the volunteer welcome page on the Habitat for Humanity Collin County website, or reach out to Volunteer Coordinator Denver Morris at [email protected].
For those who wish to donate to this project or to Habitat for Humanity, visit the give now section on the website to choose the amount and frequency of the donation.
To learn more about the Green Street project or other projects at the Collin County affiliate, visit the Habitat for Humanity Collin County website.
The above story was produced by Multi Platform Journalist Chloe Chapel with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
