Cowlitz County Habitat for Humanity has started a new home
repair program for low-income homeowners.

Organizers of the “A Brush with Kindness” program want to help
those people who have a hard time affording to maintain the
exterior of their homes. The program will provide painting,
landscape clean-up and minor exterior repairs.

Work will be done by volunteers, though homeowners also will be
asked to participate. Donated materials will be used whenever
possible.

Homeowners can only request work on their primary residence and
must meet certain income guidelines. Depending on the project,
homeowners also may be asked to re-pay a no-interest loan to cover
materials. Loan payments will go into a revolving fund to pay for
other repair projects. A Brush with Kindness is underwritten by a
grant from Valspar, Habitat’s National Paint Partner.

The program is part of Habitat’s Neighborhood Revitalization
Initiative.

“This initiative gives us a great opportunity to help more
families in need, as well as have an impact on the entire
neighborhood” said Diane Perron, Executive Director for Cowlitz
County Habitat for Humanity.

Habitat and the Highlands Neighborhood Association will select
eligible repair recipients. To participate, call 360-425-6177.

Residents who would like to learn more about Habitat’s primary
program — partnering with families to build homes — also can attend
an open enrollment meeting Wednesday at 6 p.m. in the Habitat
office, 1347 14th Ave., Longview. Please call the office,
360-425-6177, if you’re interested in attending. Details also can
be found online at www.cowlitzhabitat.org.