ODESSA CHRISTMAS IN ACTION INC

Efforts of the Odessa Christmas in Action Program: Workdays and Emergency Repairs continue with an enduring commitment spanning 35 years by addressing the acute needs of Ector County's most vulnerable. The mission of Odessa Christmas in Action is to follow God’s teachings by working together to preserve and revitalize homes and communities, assuring low-income, elderly, disabled, and veteran homeowners live in warmth, safety, and independence. Our vision is to bring foundations, churches, businesses, youth, and individuals together to help those who cannot help themselves physically or financially with significant and long-lasting home repairs.

Amidst a harsh reality where 20% of elderly residents grapple with being shelter poor, the proposed partnership becomes a beacon of hope. These poor homeowners are on a fixed income from social security, veteran benefits, or disability. They cannot afford expenses beyond their medical, utility, and food costs. The completed home repairs allow these homeowners to live in their own home until they are not able to do so safely. Earlier this year, we received an application to replace a hail- and wind-damaged roof for an elderly widow who was also disabled and living alone. Every time it rained, she put buckets all over her home to catch the dripping water coming from her ceiling. Many of the buckets needed to be in her room, around her bed. We were able to replace her roof right away. The first rain, she called us to thank us again for her new roof. She was so happy to let us know; it was not raining in her home.

Any funding will empower us to sustain and grow the Workdays and Emergency Repairs Program over a two-year span. Through these vital avenues, we allow the community of volunteers to give back by serving the growing needs of low-income, elderly, disabled, and veteran homeowners needing home repairs in Ector County. The Christmas in Action Program is a dynamic embodiment of compassion and community spirit. The projects are comprehensive and swift in addressing critical needs. These repairs are completed at no cost to the homeowners.

Workdays: The dedicated volunteers undertake large-scale home repairs, encompassing diverse tasks such as roof reconstructions, door and window replacements, safety lock installations, plumbing repairs, addressing water, air conditioning and heating, electrical issues, and gas line challenges. Moreover, the interventions are tailored to suit the unique requirements of homeowners with disabilities, effectively restoring their independence and dignity.

Emergency Repairs: Swift and timely responses characterize this facet, where we address urgent situations that jeopardize the well-being of homeowners. Our volunteers and licensed professionals collaborate to resolve issues such as water heaters, air conditioners and heaters, gas, plumbing, electrical, roofing, and home modifications for specific disabilities. These interventions ensure homeowners can continue to live within the security and safety of their own homes.

The target population of our repair program is:

Elderly (60 years and older)
Physically disabled
Veterans
Homeowner (no rental property)
Property taxes current or arrangements made to defer or make payments
Low-Income: 100% of the clients we serve are at or below the Department of Health and Human Services Poverty Guidelines.
All ethnicities, genders, and religions are welcome to volunteer to be involved in our home repair program.

Through the completed home repairs, the clients have access to safe, reliable housing; individuals and families with limited resources satisfy their basic needs; those who experience threatening situations have access to safe environments; they have access to home repairs, allowing them to overcome challenges to be more self-sufficient; and they have access to responsive and effective emergency and basic needs services. We are addressing the physical and emotional needs of the aging population by preserving and promoting independence, quality of life, and health, and protecting them from the financial exploitation of those who are not upfront with the cost and details of the actual repair.

A meticulous process underlies these interventions. Rigorous assessments pave the way for skilled volunteers, led by adept team leaders and overseen by licensed professionals. Christmas in Action takes responsibility for orchestration, facilitation, and material supply, ensuring seamless collaboration between volunteers and professionals.

In unity, compassion, and precise execution, Odessa Christmas in Action envisions an environment where individuals cherish the sanctuary of their homes, irrespective of life's challenges. Your partnership is not solely about home repairs but also about kindling hope, fostering resilience, and sustaining lives. Your support resonates far beyond its immediate, enduring impact on the very fabric of our community.