Purchase Repair Program Testimonial

Jodie Ostoich • September 10, 2024

“My experience working with Gabriel and the IHA team has been a good journey. My sons and I have learned how to do some home repairs and home improvements, and the oldest is now inspired to learn more and do home improvement and repair work. Gabriel has been a great teacher, very inspirational and supportive, and just wonderful.”

On July 12, 2024, a 14-year journey and dream of owning a home became a reality for LaShonda. On that day, we were with her as she received the keys to her new home. It’s truly a blessing to see how the team and IHA, with their diligent and selfless efforts, was a part of this dream come true for LaShonda.

But that day wasn’t the destination. It was the beginning of a new journey for LaShonda and her sons. Now for the fun part: the repair list. There were quite a few items that needed to be addressed before LaShonda could finally call it “home.” The list ranged from a replacement water heater to items as small as nail pops in the ceiling throughout the home. Here is where the skills of our construction manager, Gabriel Jimenez, were brought to bear. He oversaw her choice of contractors, along with spending time with LaShonda and her sons showing them how to do basic home repairs. Her oldest son took on the task of spackling throughout the home, while her younger son came behind and sanded and painted. He also learned how to install battery powered smoke detectors and a new closet door track. Her older son also learned to caulk and even installed an anti-tip bracket behind the stove. He even replaced the toilet valve flap in the tank on his own. Gabriel, later received a text from LaShonda saying “Anthony (her older son) is really inspired to do home improvement now!”

But wait there’s more…

On August 24, JAM (Jesus Alive Ministries) in Waynesboro brought their “S.W.E.A.T” team volunteers to LaShonda’s home, and, with LaShonda and her son, replaced deck boards, build steps for the deck, replaced an exterior door and even spread over 60 bags of fill dirt to properly grade the side of her home.

Now we’re in the final stages! With help from Gabriel, the S.W.E.A.T team, and LaShonda, a significant amount of money was saved which now allows LaShonda to tackle the last big item on her list; Flooring for the kitchen. She and Gabriel shopped and 3 different stores until she found the type that she liked best. Floor and Décor in Gaithersburg was the winner!!

Here’s what LaShonda had to say about her experience so far:

“My experience working with Gabriel and the IHA team has been a good journey. My sons and I have learned how to do some home repairs and home improvements, and the oldest is now inspired to learn more and do home improvement and repair work. Gabriel has been a great teacher, very inspirational and supportive, and just wonderful.”

One of the greatest things we can provide to a family is inspiration and mentorship and IHA brought that to LaShonda and her sons.

Weinberg House Renovation Brings New Life to Senior Living

By Vickie Mills • June 2, 2026
Exciting, the final renovations of the last two units are underway at Weinberg House, a long-standing affordable senior living community in Fredrick, Maryland. Originally built in 1994, the property provided safe, stable housing for older adults for decades. Renovations began on May 1, 2023. At that time, they had a total of 23 units to renovate. The renovations included freshly painted walls, new carpet in the bedrooms, new flooring in the other rooms, new cabinets in the bathroom, as well as new kitchen cupboards, fixtures and new appliances. The final two units will be ready for lease up June 15, 2026. The renovation of Weinberg House represents a meaningful investment in both people and place. By modernizing the property while protecting its mission, this project will help ensure that affordable, welcoming housing remains available for seniors for years to come. It is an encouraging example of how thoughtful redevelopment can strengthen communities and honor the residents who call them home.

Interfaith Housing Alliance (IHA) is proud to announce three funding awards during the last quarter from our community partners.

By Rachel Gardner • June 2, 2026
In March 2026, IHA was awarded a $50,000 grant through the Frederick County Government’s Helping Empower Area Resources Together (HEART). These one-time operational funds were awarded to mitigate the effects of the longest federal government shutdown in history. This grant has allowed IHA to continue providing essential programs and services to Frederick County residents despite challenges at the federal level. IHA was also awarded a $5,000 grant from the City of Frederick through the Community Promotion Grant program. This grant supports aging in place and youth development needs among City residents through IHA’s Supportive Services. The program serves residents of IHA’s senior and multi-family affordable rental communities at 222 Broadway Street (Weinberg House) and 520 N. Market Street, respectively. In April 2026, IHA was also awarded a $25,000 Community Partnership Grant from Frederick County Government. This grant supports IHA’s full range of Financial Dignity and Empowerment Services, including our homeownership and financial education programming. IHA’s Purchase-Repair Program provides an avenue to homeownership for those who otherwise would not qualify for a traditional home loan. In Credit Café, participants work specifically on improving their credit. Financial Freedom Bootcamp helps participants improve their skills in budgeting, saving, debt reduction, and financial goal setting. The Frederick Affordable Housing Incubator (FAHI) brings multiple sectors together to increase the affordable housing inventory in Frederick County.

36 Years of Building Stability, Opportunity, and Hope

By Lacy Ames • June 2, 2026
For 36 years, the Interfaith Housing Alliance has stood beside individuals and families as they navigate some of life’s most difficult moments. What began as a mission rooted in compassion and community partnership has grown into an organization that continues to make a lasting impact across our region, helping families find stability, build financial confidence, and create brighter futures. As we celebrate this milestone anniversary, we are not only reflecting on where we have been, but also recognizing the incredible growth, resilience, and innovation that continue to shape IHA today. Over the past 36 years, IHA has evolved to meet the changing needs of the community while remaining committed to the same core belief: everyone deserves access to safe housing, financial education, and the opportunity to thrive. Through housing counseling, financial education workshops, community partnerships, and affordable housing initiatives, IHA has empowered thousands of individuals and families with the tools, support, and stability needed to move forward with confidence. Beyond education and counseling services, IHA’s long-standing commitment to affordable housing development has helped create lasting impact throughout the community. Over the years, IHA has developed, built, and managed affordable housing units that have provided safe, stable homes for countless individuals and families. These housing initiatives represent more than buildings, they represent opportunity, dignity, and the foundation for stronger futures. The growth and preservation of affordable housing remains a vital part of IHA’s legacy and ongoing mission. Behind every program, every workshop, and every success story is a community of people who believe in the work we do. Our staff, volunteers, donors, partners, and supporters have played an essential role in helping IHA grow over the last three and a half decades. Their dedication and belief in our mission continue to fuel the impact we are able to make every day. Most importantly, we celebrate the individuals and families who have trusted IHA to be part of their journey. Every financial goal reached, every housing challenge overcome, and every moment of renewed confidence is a reminder of why this work matters. As we look ahead, we remain focused on continuing to innovate, educate, and advocate for stronger communities. The need for affordable housing resources and financial empowerment remains as important as ever, and IHA is committed to meeting that need with the same compassion and determination that has defined the organization for the past 36 years.  Thank you for being part of the Interfaith Housing Alliance story. Together, we celebrate 36 years of impact and look forward to the many more lives we will continue to support in the years ahead.
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