From Worries to Joy

March 18, 2025 Projects

Homes are more than just houses. They represent a lifetime of hard-earned progress. Like their owners, they deserve to be beautiful.

Thanks to lead safe renovation grants, made possible through the Land Bank's efforts in partnership with the Board of Lucas County Commissioners and the Lead Safe Ohio Program, Mz. Diva, Ms. Quilla Foreman, and Ms. Renee Garrett have made their properties safer and experienced a profound transformation in their lives.

Mz. Diva's joy is palpable. "Every time I drive up the driveway, I get excited," she exclaims. Her home, paid off nine years ago, has been given a new lease on life. The exterior renovations, a "miracle" in her eyes, have turned her house into a "brand new home." The Land Bank's support was "wonderful," a sentiment echoed by her neighbors, who shower her with compliments. Her excitement is infectious, and she's already planning interior renovations, ready to "live high on the hog."

For Ms. Quilla, her house represents "a lifetime." The renovation work was a long-awaited blessing, a "prayer" answered. She was overwhelmed with gratitude, repeatedly asking if it was "for real." The transformation has not only improved her living conditions but also boosted her sense of security and well-being. Neighbors, and even a friend in Las Vegas, have noticed the remarkable change, affirming the positive impact of the grant. Ms. Quilla's happiness is pure and unfiltered, a testament to the life-changing effect of the program.

Ms. Renee's story highlights the relief and gratitude of overcoming seemingly insurmountable challenges. Contemplating how to afford necessary repairs, she found a lifeline in the Land Bank and the Lead Safe Ohio Program. Her new siding and gutters, funded through this vital partnership, have dramatically improved her home's appearance, drawing compliments from the mail carrier and her nurse. "That doesn't look like the same house," they marvel. Ms. Renee's "ecstatic" reaction speaks volumes. She specifically mentions Ryan and Shantaé for their exceptional support, emphasizing the personal touch that made the process so meaningful.

These women's experiences underscore the profound impact of lead safe renovation work in older homes. Beyond the practical improvements, these grants have restored a sense of security, pride, and hope. These investments have transformed worries into joy thanks to the State of Ohio and the Board of Lucas County Commissioners.