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Our Mission
Our
mission is to help rebuild lives -- one home at a time. We
preserve and revitalize houses and communities, assuring
that low-income homeowners, particularly those who are elderly,
disabled and/or supporting young children, live in safety and
warmth. National Rebuild
Day is on the last Saturday in April.
Non-Discrimination Statement
In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of
Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from
discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin,
sex, age, religion, political beliefs or disability. To file a
complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of
Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C.
20250-9410 or call (800)795-3272 (voice) or (202)720-6382 (TTY).
USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Why Are These Services Needed?
The number of low-income homeowners increases each year. The
current 24 million low-income homeowner families is expected to
grow to an astonishing 28.5 million by the year 2010. This
growth means that more and more families are placed in the
position of choosing between vital necessities, such as food or
medicine, or a roof that does not leak. Rebuilding Together
works to ensure that as many of those families as possible do
not have to make these difficult choices.
What Type of Work is Done?
We provide emergency year-round services in addition to the
major rehabilitation projects we undertake on National
Rebuilding Day. We build ramps, install grab bars, and work on
other home modifications to allow homeowners to safely “age in
place.”
We also work preserving and revitalizing non-profit facilities.
Our unskilled volunteers join with skilled tradespeople,
painting, cleaning, and weatherizing, as well as doing
carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work.
How are Homeowners Selected?
Homeowners must be low-income and elderly, disabled, or families
with children, and unable to do the work themselves. The site
selection process takes place locally, within broad national
guidelines. Criteria differ slightly from affiliate to
affiliate. Individual families are referred through neighborhood
associations, churches, synagogues, community organizations, and
service groups, or by self-referral.
Do Homeowners Pay?
All repairs are free for homeowners. Labor and many supplies are
typically donated. Homeowners and family members are asked to
welcome the volunteers into their homes and work alongside them
to the extent possible. Our work is done with families and
neighborhoods, not for them. A homeowner brochure (pdf) is
provided to clarify our process and partnership.
Who Sponsors Rebuilding Together?
Funds come from generous individuals, corporations, labor
organizations, foundations, civic organizations, churches, and
synagogues that are interested in helping to build a better
world. Our local affiliates do their own fundraising, publicity,
volunteer recruitment, and management. Rebuilding Together is a
non-profit, non-sectarian organization supported by voluntary
contributions of time and money. Every dollar given is wisely
spent and is an investment in building a better America.
Is My Contribution Tax-Deductible?
Yes. All contributions are tax-deductible. Contributions can be
sent to Rebuilding Together, 1536 Sixteenth Street NW,
Washington, D.C. 20036-1402. We also welcome your comments and
suggestions.
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