Gordy Adams: The project began by educating 30 Elder homeowners on energy-efficient technologies to reduce home energy costs, like LED lighting, low-flow showerheads, ENERGY STAR appliances, and efficient furnaces. The project then provided a temporary weatherization technician who was able to inspect Elder homes and identify specific energy-efficient deficiencies for repairs. Many of our Elders have little income and are grateful for the weatherization services the grant provided to help in reducing heating costs by replacing broken windows, fixing trim and doors, caulking, weather stripping, spray foam, and plastic for windows during the winter months.
What did community members think about the improvements?
Gordy Adams: The Elders were very appreciative of the work done in their homes. Here are a few notes we received:
- It’s helped me to be able to close my door tight to keep out the cold! Miigwech!
- Now I have a window that I can see out of without a big plastic bag covering the broken parts that will keep heat and cold out as needed!
- What a great helper and repaired everything I asked for!
What did you learn during the project?
Gordy Adams: During the project it was identified that Elder homeowners were in need of additional minor repairs beyond energy improvements, and we made those, too. These minor repairs—like plumbing fixes, wall patches, and railing repair—helped to further alleviate homeowner concerns.
