New Initiative From Habitat for Humanity Coming to Mansfield

Old Colony Habitat for Humanity no longer just wants to build houses, they want to help you repair and move around your house if you need help.

Speaking to the selectmen on Wednesday night, Bill McKenna announced the start of Brush With Kindness, a new effort to help those who cannot maintain upkeep in their homes.

According to McKenna, Brush With Kindness will help those who cannot get around their house like they use to or are struggling to maintain their homes. Like Habitat for Humanity, volunteers will come in and help the homeowner once the costs are estimated and the homeowner is provided with a no interest loan.

McKenna said the group would focus on work such as building ramps to homes, widening doorways, as well as major repairs.

The group’s first effort was just completed in North Attleboro with Old Colony Habitat for Humanity and A Brush With Kindness looking for opportunities with Mansfield. The group is working with area veterans groups and councils on aging as well at boards of health to help fix code violations.

“It’s a hand up and not a handout, that works with our homes as well as Brush With Kindness,” McKenna said.

The selectmen showed excitement for the new initiative, encouraging the group to find a project in Mansfield.

“I’ve seen you put homes up and I think you put them up pretty fast considering you don’t have a lot of time during the week. I like this brush idea because it helps a lot more people especially people who can’t do maintenance and repairs for themselves. Hopefully something will come along that we can work with you,” Selectmen Chairman George Dentino said.

Executive Director Manny Cunard said he has had discussions with Mansfield Bank about building a home in town and is ready when the opportunity arises.

“Mansfield is so prime for a house build. We’ve had a number of conversation with leaders in the city. We are ready to come into Mansfield and help the affordable housing priorities,” Cunard said.

To learn more about A Brush With Kindness, head over to the Old Colony Habitat for Humanity website.