Hundreds of homeowners and houses are screened every year through an open application process. Homeowners are referred primarily through community development corporations, faith-based organizations, and social service agencies. Many homeowners are elderly or disabled, but all are encouraged to participate as much as their capabilities allow.
All work is performed without charge to the homeowners.
Nearly fifty years ago, Julia Vessels attended the University of Pennsylvania on full scholarship, and was one of a handful of African American students at Penn at the time. When she graduated, she devoted her life to social work and raising her family. She never made much money, but persevered in doing what she loved to do - help people in need. Ms. Vessels is not accustomed to asking other people for help, but the tables turned. Ms. Vessels is 67 years old and has been suffering from heart and kidney problems while raising three grandchildren in the house where she has lived for thirty-two years.