Matt's Story

“Cooking in the kitchen is what’s been the most improved. I can also do work for school in the comfort of my room upstairs without worrying about the mold.”

Originally from Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, Matt served in the military until leaving in 2015 due to a back injury. The same year, Matt and his wife purchased their home in the Belmont neighborhood of West Philadelphia, where Matt spends time working to complete his doctorate in clinical psychology. 

In 2023, a rough storm knocked a tree branch into the back of the couple’s home, causing severe damage and leading to persistent water leaks and mold in the kitchen and laundry room. For a military veteran and student, the cost of repairs was overwhelming, so Matt and his wife began looking for various options when they discovered Habitat Philadelphia’s Home Repair Program. 

Matt worked alongside Habitat’s Home Repair team to receive critical repairs which included removing all mold-infected areas, replacing cabinets and essential appliances, and adding a new roof with drainage modifications, new vinyl flooring and new drywall.

The unexpected damage had been a cause of much worry and stress, but since the repairs, Matt and his wife have been able to return to the normal rhythm of their lives. With the roof, kitchen and laundry room restored, they can cook meals again, have access to clean clothes and know that their home is fully safe and healthy to live in. 

Matt’s story is testament to the direct impact of critical home repairs. Left unaddressed, water damage and mold could have led to serious health concerns, but now Matt and his wife can live comfortably without those worries. At Habitat Philadelphia, we are committed to working alongside veterans like Matt, to ensure their homes remain safe and resilient for years to come.