Stories of Impact: Monica and Peter Scott

The Senior Homeowner Stabilization Program: A Burden Lifted

For more than 30 years, Monica and Peter Scott have called their Washington, DC, home a place of comfort and family. But over time, their roof began to deteriorate, bringing new worries into a home once filled with peace.

“We’ve always needed the roof replaced,” Mrs. Scott said. “There was a lot of damage, a lot of rotten and decayed wood. And then the raccoons started tearing it up.”

The couple’s struggle with roof damage lasted more than a year. “We tried working with a solar company that said we qualified for a roof, but after months of waiting, we never heard back,” she said. “We couldn’t go into winter and have raccoons starting a family up there.”

With her husband unable to work after suffering multiple strokes, the couple’s limited income made roof repairs impossible. “We don’t have any money,” she said. “My husband had like five strokes this year. He’s not able to work. Someone gave us the information for you all, and I’m so grateful.”

From Uncertainty to Support

Through Lydia’s House, the Scotts were referred to The Coalition’s Senior Homeowner Stabilization Program, where they found both immediate help and genuine care. Lydia’s House serves as a key partner for the program, helping seniors complete and submit their applications for assistance.

“Mr. Malcolm is wonderful,” Mrs. Scott said, referring to the contractor who managed their project. “He’s meticulous, efficient, and clean. Everything went very smoothly. He’s on top of his game, and he’s been awesome throughout the process. No complaints. He’s a good guy.”

The team completed a full architectural asphalt shingle roof replacement on the main house and porch. They repaired damaged decking, installed new underlayment and insulation, and added roof vents for proper ventilation. The ceiling damage caused by leaks was also repaired and repainted, giving the interior a fresh, finished look. “The workers were clean, careful, and they did everything the right way,” she said.

A Burden Lifted

When the work was done, the relief was immediate. “I felt peace of mind,” Mrs. Scott said. “So incredibly relieved and blessed to have this done. You don’t know what a burden that lifts off your shoulders.”

Before the repairs, the couple had to hire a company to remove raccoons repeatedly, as the animals kept finding openings in the roof. “They’d find the smallest space and go to work,” she said. “Even after we caught them, they’d find a way back. It was stressful.”

Now, with a brand-new roof and sealed structure, those worries are gone.

The Value of Support

Mrs. Scott described the experience as life changing. “Such a relief to know I didn’t have to come out of my pocket,” Mrs. Scott said.

Her gratitude is deeply felt and freely shared. “Honey, I’m just so blessed and grateful,” she said. “Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

She also appreciated how clear and organized the process was, from paperwork to completion. “It was so smooth,” she said. “Mr. Malcolm and everyone were professional and kind. If I ever need anything done in my house and I can afford it, I’ll call him. I’d recommend this program to anybody.”

A Message to Other Seniors

For Monica and Peter, this repair was more than a home improvement project; it was a restoration of stability, safety, and pride. “Definitely apply for it,” she urged. “If you’re in dire need like I was, don’t wait. It’s a blessing. I’m on disability, and my husband’s on SSI. I don’t think a lot of people know about this program, but they should.”

Her only wish for the future is that more funding becomes available so other families can experience the same relief. “No complaints at all,” she said. “Just more funding, because people really need this kind of help.”

For Monica and Peter, the outcome was transformative. What began as a season of worry ended in gratitude and relief.