What is it?
A Brush With Kindness (ABWK) is a program of Brookings Area Habitat for Humanity. It provides affordable exterior home improvements to homeowners living on limited income in Brookings County. The program works to restore homes by painting, landscaping, and performing minor exterior repairs through the use of volunteer teams. Homeowners work alongside our volunteers or assist in other non-labor areas.
A Brush With Kindness (ABWK) is made possible with a generous contribution from Larson Manufacturing and Wells Fargo in partnership with BAHFH.
How does A Brush With Kindness work?
Exterior painting services are offered at no cost to the homeowner. Supplies and skilled labor for exterior repairs are paid through a no-profit, no-interest loan with affordable payment options. These loans cover project costs up to $3,000.
Payments are put into a revolving fund that allows Habitat to continue with projects to assist others. Homeowners are required to make a down payment of $50 before beginning the program.
Repair services provided by A Brush With Kindness include but are not limited to painting, landscaping, and performing minor exterior repairs which typically includes fixing broken windows and doors, trim, overhang soffit, fascia, steps and wheel chair ramps, etc. ABWK has been serving Brookings County since 2009.
Am I Eligible?
Homeowner eligibility is determined based on need, their ability to pay a no interest and low payment loan, and their willingness to partner.
Interested Homeowners must be able to :
- Own and occupy a home that is in need of exterior improvements and own the land where it is situated.
- Meet income guidelines below and be able to re-pay a zero interst loan.
- Be willing to partner with Habitat to complete Sweat Equity hours.
Income Guidelines :
- Use the chart below to determine if you meet the income guidelines for maximum allowable income. Compare it to your family’s total yearly income, before taxes, and from all sources.
| Family Size | Maximum Yearly Income |
| 1 | $28,320 |
| 2 | $32,340 |
| 3 | $36,360 |
| 4 | $40380 |
| 5 | $43,620 |
| 6 | $46,860 |
(Income Guidelines based on 2013 median income)
How do I apply?
Click on the application link below and print out or you can get an application by calling 605-697-2540, emailing bahfh2@brookings.net, stopping by our office or the ReStore. If you have questions please call our office and we will be happy to help you.