ESSEX, IA- Southwest Iowa Planning Council (SWIPCO) recently implemented an Iowa West Foundation Home Repair Grant to help a rural Essex resident address some urgent needs, ultimately keeping her in the home.

Cynthia Samuel had some foundation issues that led to freezing pipes and in turn a deteriorating bathroom. She said she started searching for the possibility of funding to help her correct the issue and got connected with SWIPCO. After speaking with SWIPCO Inspector Mathew Lee, Samuel was quickly put on track to get some repairs. SWIPCO officials say they were able to help get Samuel approved for funding to repair the foundation cracks to prevent the temperature issues from continuing. Once that was corrected, updates were then made to the flooring structure and plumbing of her bathroom. That was followed by renovation and finishing of the entire room.Samuel said it was a blessing to find help, “I didn’t think I was going to be able to stay here with the continuing water issues. I started looking for other places to live. I’m so grateful for the work as I plan on staying here as long as I can.”

Photos of the completed bathroom project and of the resident; Cynthia Samuel in the updated room. (Photos & info. courtesy SWIPCO Communications Coordinator Chris Parks)

Samuel grew up in the area and moved away for an extended period. She came back to take care of her parents that both had cancer. She eventually purchased the home she’s in now.
Samuel had high praise for everyone she worked with during the repairs. “Mathew was so great to work with, we talked like we had been friends. The contractor was excellent and just came and took care of his business.” She liked the simplicity of the renovation. “They just sent me some pictures of a couple options on flooring and fixtures, and I picked what I liked out. They took care of the rest. I’m proud of it even though I didn’t do it.”

SWIPCO implements several different funding sources and programs to help residents in the region get needed repairs to their homes. If you have a need for your home and would like information about what assistance could be provided, please contact SWIPCO at 712-243-4196 or 1-866-279-4720.