Labor of Love
Creating warm, safe, and dry homes for those in need
Transforming Homes, Touching Lives.
Welcome to the heart of community transformation: United Way of Eastern LaSalle County’s Labor of Love. This initiative embodies the spirit of volunteerism and community support as we join hands to bring positive change to the homes of those in need. Labor of Love is not just a one-day home repair blitz; it’s a testament to the strength of our community and the belief that everyone deserves a safe and secure place to call home.
Dedicated volunteers converge for a day of hands-on work, repairing and enhancing homes across Eastern LaSalle County. From essential repairs to creating accessible living spaces, Labor of Love ensures that individuals and families facing challenges have a supportive community ready to uplift them. Together, we are not just repairing homes; we are building a stronger, more compassionate community where everyone can thrive.
Labor of Love Program Details
Are you a homeowner facing challenges in maintaining your home? Explore the possibilities of applying for Labor of Love Assistance. If you own and reside in your home within the specified communities, have a household income not exceeding 50% of the area’s median income, and find yourself physically or financially unable to complete necessary repairs, this program is designed to support you. Learn about eligibility criteria, the application process, and how Labor of Love can transform your living space into a safer and more secure home.
Your journey to a revitalized home begins here.
Who Can Apply?
If you meet the following criteria, you are eligible to apply for the Labor of Love program:
- Own and reside in your home with no intention to sell or vacate for the next 3-5 years.
- Reside in one of the following communities: Dayton, Grand Ridge, Harding, Leland, Marseilles, Naplate, Norway, Ottawa, Seneca, Serena, Sheridan, or Wedron.
- Have a combined household income not exceeding 50% of the area’s median income, as outlined in the application guidelines. Proof of annual gross income for every household member is required for verification.
- Find yourself physically or financially unable to complete the necessary home repairs or improvements independently. If you meet these criteria, we encourage you to apply and allow Labor of Love to transform your home into a safer and more secure living space.
Is there an income threshold?
- 1 person: $31,813
- 2 persons: $35,913
- 3 persons: $40,013
- 4 persons: $44,113
- 5 persons: $47,413
- 6 persons: $50,713
Where Can I Find an Application?
Applications for the 2024 Labor of Love program will be available on May 15, 2024.
Apply online or pick up a paper application at a local financial institution:
- First National Bank of Ottawa
- First Federal Savings Bank
- Old National Bank, Seneca
- First State Bank
- Grand Ridge Bank
- Marseilles Bank
- Midland State Bank
- OSB Community Bank
- OSB/Ottawa Savings Bank
- SOCU, Ottawa
What are the steps to apply?
- Complete and return the application along with the required supporting documents.
- Complete in-person interview to review needs and application.
- Home preview with a Labor of Love volunteer to assess repairs.
- Notification of approval by September 1.
What documents do I need to apply?
- Copy of Property deed or title
- Copy of Mortgage statement (if applicable)
- Copy of Current real estate tax bill
- Proof of homeowner insurance. This can be a receipt showing current payment or letter from insured of current status.
- Copies of last 2 months bank statements
- Proof of income for all people over age 18 living in home.
- This includes SSI benefit statements; investment income statements; and copy of 2023 tax returns
What are the dates and deadlines?
- May 15: Applications Open
- Aug. 1: Applications Due
- Sept. 1: Approval Notification
- Oct. 5: 2024 Labor of Love
33
Years Labor of Love has provided home repairs
963
Homes repaired through the Labor of Love program
10/5
2024 Labor of Love Date
Voices of Impact: Hear from Our Community
We were like you—we volunteered our time and energy to gladly help. We never expected to be on the receiving end of Labor of Love, but as negative life changes began happening, finances, home maintenance and emotional health took a dive. People in our situation feel a loss of these things over time. You gave us more than what paint, new doors, lights and all the other things you fix do. You gave us some pride back and sense of joy, comfort, and dignity.
Thank you to our Signature Sponsor!
Constellation Energy, Signature Sponsor of Labor of Love for 20 years, generously provides necessary funding and teams of volunteers to lead repairs on 4-6 homes each year.
Get Involved!
Volunteers have been the heartbeat of Labor of Love for over 30 years. The only skill necessary is the desire to help someone in our community.
Getting involved with Labor of Love is your opportunity to be a hands-on force for positive change in Eastern LaSalle County. Whether you’re a skilled tradesperson or simply someone with a passion for making a difference, your commitment on this one-day home repair blitz can transform lives. Join our dedicated team of volunteers, roll up your sleeves, and contribute to creating safer and more secure living spaces for individuals and families facing challenges.
Your involvement goes beyond repairs; it’s a meaningful investment in building a community where everyone has a place to call home. Join us in making a lasting impact through Labor of Love.