HMLP: Helping Make A House A Home

What makes a house a home?

For Jamie S., the defining factor is the safety of her four children, especially for her youngest son, who has autism. “When you have a child with autism, it’s like parenting times 100. You’re constantly thinking about how to keep them safe.”

Jamie’s son has a hard time falling asleep. Spending time outdoors helps him regulate but brings its own set of challenges. With an unfenced yard, Jamie’s son would wander off across the street. It became clear to her that the layout of their home presented serious safety concerns.

Through guidance from Valley and a loan from the Home Modification Loan Program, Jamie added a fourth bedroom and a screened porch, creating spaces tailored to her son’s needs.

Jamie worked with Homeownership Program Manager Donna Cabana throughout the application process. “She was amazing,” Jamie says. “I absolutely loved working with her.” When approval for the porch was initially denied, Donna stayed engaged, supporting Jamie in every step of the way. “She was there the whole time. She helped any way that she could without overstepping.”

Her son enjoys having a room of his own just as much as any other kid, but Jamie was granted invaluable peace of mind as a mother.

About Valley Community Development 

Valley Community Development is a nonprofit organization dedicated to uplifting communities through affordable housing development, small business assistance, and homeownership programs throughout Hampshire, Hampden, and Franklin counties. Since 1988, Valley has remained steadfast in its mission to create economic opportunity and housing stability for entrepreneurs and residents across the CT River Valley.