Like most cities in the United States, thousands of low-income homeowners living in Tulsa, Oklahoma, struggle to keep up with home repairs. Nonprofit Revitalize T-Town was founded in 1997 to help this demographic make repairs focused on safety, security and weatherproofing, including roof replacement.

“A solid roof is incredibly important for a safe home. Oklahoma weather can reach extremes in each season,” said Jennifer Barcus-Schafer, CEO of Revitalize T-Town.

When inclement weather arrives, moisture can damage homes that don’t have a sturdy roof. Left unchecked, this damage can lead to higher roof replacement costs and additional repairs. Revitalize T-Town works to replace roofs before unnecessary damage happens, but the cost is high.

In 2019, the Federal Home Loan Bank of Topeka awarded a $750,000 Affordable Housing Program (AHP) grant to Revitalize T-Town through member BOK Financial. “These funds were instrumental in making homes safe and secure for our low-income homeowners,” said Jennifer.

Over the next four years, Revitalize T-Town used the grant for roof replacement and home repairs, benefitting 100 homeowners who were at or below 50% of the area median income.

“Now our clients don't have to worry about their roofs leaking and have peace of mind during thunderstorms,” Jennifer said.