Housing

Project 1: Expanding Weatherization and Energy Assistance

The benefits of weatherization begin with reducing the energy bills of recipients for a long period of time. Some measures, such as insulating walls or roofs, for example, can provide savings for the lifetime of a house—30 years or more. Other measures, such as making heating or cooling equipment more efficient, will provide savings for 10–15 years. On average, the value of the weatherization improvements is 2.2 times greater than the cost.

Another distinguishing feature of weatherization could be attention to an all-around safety check. Many buildings receiving attention are old and in need of repair. Weatherization service providers could also check major energy systems to ensure occupant safety.

Both OACAC and Habitat for Humanity offer weatherization assistance, but the need greatly surpasses program funding. This project consists of working with partners such as (but not limited to): OACAC, Habitat, City Utilities, Convoy of Hope, United Way and neighborhood associations to identify homes in need and creating community partnership to provide greatly expand weatherization program capacities.

Help Needed

Convoy of Hope’s Springfield Connections program, following the May 7 Event at Ozark Empire Fairgrounds, has recruited 350 volunteers to specifically work on identified homes and housing units. More volunteers are needed; supplies; and help getting the word out.

  • Status: Planning Phase
  • Timeframe: 18 months
  • Scope: Zone 1
  • Cost: TBD
  • Want to help? Sign up here.

Project 2: Expanding Participation in Annual Landlord Training

For many years, the City of Springfield and Community Partnership have collaborated to offer a Landlord Training each year. This training is designed for landlords and property managers of single-family homes, duplexes and triplexes in order to create safer neighborhoods, improve the working relationship with the Springfield Police Department, and facilitate better business success for landlords.

Help Needed

Promotion; Funding for mailing; Supplies; Food at training.

  • Status: In Progress
  • Timeframe: Spring 2017
  • Scope: Zone 1
  • Cost: TBD
  • Want to help? Sign up here.

Project 3: Providing Legal Advice for Zone 1 Tenants

Tenants sometimes find themselves in unfortunate predicaments that leave them needing legal advice. Zone Blitz partners have stepped forward to provide legal services for those needing assistance in housing/rental matters.

Help Needed

Volunteer lawyers

  • Status: Planning Phase
  • Timeframe: 18 months
  • Scope: Zone 1
  • Cost: TBD
  • Want to help? Sign up here.