Hometown Habitat News

July 2022 – Sponsor of the Month: Home Depot Foundation

Kemp Family Home Depot Foundation July 2022

Habitat for Humanity Lake-Sumter is invested in helping those that have invested in our country, and this month we’ve partnered with The Home Depot Foundation, to fulfill that mission.

Veterans are an important focus among Habitat’s programs. With Lake and Sumter Counties large population of Veterans, we’re committed to improve access to safe and affordable housing for them through our Veterans Housing Initiative.

Veteran-centered projects were renewed thanks to our partnership with The Home Depot Foundation – Repair Corps. The Home Depot Foundation allotted Habitat Lake-Sumter $40,000 to serve our veterans once again.

This money was crucial in completing critical home repairs to areas such as, roofing, sub floors, accessibility, plumbing, and more. The Home Depot Foundation created the means for Habitat Lake-Sumter to help Veterans in need and to improve their living situation. This partnership improved the stability and security for those who deserve it most. It also impacted many lives and communities, one of which was Mr. Kenneth Kemp.

“I was in a very dark place before reaching out to Habitat a year ago…I got the call, and everything in my life turned around! My home is better, my life is better…I’m just so grateful for what Habitat and Home Depot have done for me.” -Kenneth Kemp

Mr. Kemp faithfully served in the Army for 14 years. During his time, he sustained multiple physical injuries which left him 80% disabled. As he journeyed on after his time in the Army, he pursued other professions, all to support his family, but ultimately his disability greatly impacted his life. Now retired, Mr. Kemp has lived in his home for 20 years.  His home began to fall into disrepair due to natural aging of the home and hurricane damage. Due to his disabilities, Mr. Kemp was unable to complete them on his own. He needed assistance and was struggling to find it. Mr. Kemp felt that his home was a reflection of his life, which was currently declining. His home status was impacting his mental well-being.

The Home Depot Foundation created a beautiful opportunity for Mr. Kemp and his home. His home needed subfloor repair, roof repair, and foundation leveling. The repairs needed were unmanageable both financially and physically, but with the funds awarded to Habitat Lake-Sumter, Mr. Kemp was able to receive the necessary repairs.

Since receiving the call from Habitat, Mr. Kemp’s life has changed for the better. He found love again and the couple married this May. He is now proud of his home and happy to share his newly repaired home with his wife.  Mr. and Mrs. Kemp’s home is now safe and ready to be filled with love and new memories.

It was an honor to serve Mr. Kemp and to be a part of the life changing differences that were made through the partnership with The Home Depot Foundation.