Twelve units at the St. Margaret of Cortona Transitional
Residences in Woodbridge had a recent makeover thanks to diocesan Catholic
Charities, HomeAid Northern Virginia and homebuilder Toll Brothers and its partners.
The $96,000 builder cost renovations took three months to complete.
Improvements also were made to the children’s activity center, which included
new flooring and a refrigerator.
Improvements to the residences included updated bathrooms,
drywall repair, new flooring and updated kitchens with granite countertops
widened to allow for an eating space for families.
HomeAid Northern Virginia organized and led the project,
convening homebuilders with nonprofits such as Catholic Charities to renovate
housing facilities, according to Shelley Ducker, communications consultant for
HomeAid.
“The structural renovations and cosmetic improvements make the
St. Margaret’s residence more welcoming, comfortable, safe and ‘homey’ for the
women and children who are gaining security and stability through the
transitional housing program,” said Kristyn Burr, executive director of HomeAid
Northern Virginia. “With HomeAid Northern Virginia, Toll Brothers and our
construction trade partners covering more than 70 percent of the total
renovation costs, Catholic Charities can stretch its budget and focus on
supportive programs and services rather than building expenses.”
Currently six of the units are occupied. The residents stayed at
a hotel for two weeks during the renovations. Their furniture was stored on-site
thanks to Toll Brothers providing a storage container.
Staged Interior provided new furniture from its Chantilly
warehouse for the six vacant apartments.
“For our families who have not had an easy time of it, maybe
living in emergency housing, they got to come home to these fresh units that
just look stunning,” said Veronica Roth, transitional housing program director.
Roth said it was hard to say how many other things were done
above and beyond the scope of the required work. “If doors were broken, they
were replaced. If they saw it, they handled it,” she said. “It was like having
magic around.”
St. Margaret of Cortona was dedicated by Bishop Paul S. Loverde in
2009. Since the project began, 66 families, including 151 children, have lived
there.
Applicants must demonstrate that they currently are residing at a
shelter or safe house; be a family consisting of one or both parents with
children; have proof of a bank account or the ability to bank; undergo a
background check and be clear of any sexual or violent crimes; have or be
willing to get a General Education Degree (GED); work a full-time job and be
able to show proof of employment; and be clear of any substance abuse or in
counseling to eliminate it.