A Brush with Kindness (ABWK) is a program of Habitat for Humanity of East Central South Dakota, Inc. that helps limited-income homeowners by offering exterior home improvements. Volunteer teams work to improve the condition of homes by painting, landscaping fix-up, and performing minor exterior repairs at minimal costs to home-owners who would be unable to complete home repairs on their own. Able-bodied homeowners will work alongside the volunteers in a cooperative effort. This program is for homeowners earning 60 percent or less of the median income (see income guidelines).
What Work Do We Do?
ABWK focuses primarily on neighborhood beautification through the exterior painting and landscaping fix-up of homes. Paint, tools, and labor are offered free of charge. Minor exterior repairs are possible at the discretion of ABWK.
What is the Cost?
ABWK will cost an administrative fee of $100, payable in up to four payments. The homeowners must agree not to sell their home in two years. If the home is sold, some portion of the value of the fix-up will be due to Habitat.
Program Requirements
- Must own and occupy a home that needs and could benefit from short-term exterior improvements.
- Must meet the income guidelines outlined in this below.
- Must be willing to partner with Habitat.
- Must be unable to afford necessary home improvements and unable to complete them otherwise due to age, disability, or circumstance.
- Must own and occupy a home in Madison, SD.
Click here for income guidelines.
How Do I Apply?
In order to apply for ABWK, you must fill out an application. Applications are accepted based on our volunteer availability. To receive an application, please call the Habitat office at 605-427-9906 or e-mail Habitat for Humanity of East Central South Dakota, Inc. at habitat57042@gmail.com, and an application will be mailed to you.
Click here for a copy of the application. Print out and complete the application, and send it to:
Habitat for Humanity of East Central SD
PO Box 214
Madison, SD 57042
In order to complete the application, you will need to provide copies of the following items:
- Your Income Tax Returns for the last year.
- Proof of home ownership (i.e. most recent property tax valuation or homeowners insurance)
