IMPROVEMENTS TO HOMEWORD PROPERTIES SUPPORT HEALTH, SAFETY AND SUSTAINABILITY
At Homeword, we know that a safe, healthy, and energy-efficient home is the foundation for people to thrive. That’s why we’re making big investments in the long-term quality of our rent-restricted homes across Montana. When we take care of our buildings, we’re taking care of our residents.
In addition to transforming part of our office into a financial empowerment hub for Financial Educator Chelsea, we’ve launched four major property improvement projects that reflect our commitment to resident well-being and sustainable stewardship of our rental communities.
At Bluebunch Flats in Livingston, we’re lighting the way toward a greener future! We’re partnering with Yellowstone Bend Citizen’s Council (YBCC), Independent Power and HRDC to raise funds for improvements on new solar panels on the annex building that will help offset electricity costs for the community room. Thanks to a dedicated grant and an incredible partner who stepped in to cover a final $2,700 funding gap, this project brings both environmental and financial benefits to our residents.
From installing efficient heat pumps to resurfacing the parking lot, the upgrades are underway at Orchard Gardens in Missoula. Using Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds in partnership with the City of Missoula, we’re cleaning and protecting solar panels, replacing worn flooring in the main house, addressing radon concerns, repairing sidewalks to ensure accessibility and replacing four backflow preventers to protect our residents’ drinking water. These updates create healthier, more comfortable environments.
At our Fireweed Court property in Missoula, our team is embracing innovative solutions to extend the life of the property and reduce future costs. We’re restoring the roof with the help of Freedom Solutions’ Nano Roof Sealer, a cutting-edge technology that uses nanoparticles to protect and reorganize asphalt shingles from within. This approach is not only more sustainable but also leads to savings of up to 80% compared to full roof replacement. Additional updates include new solar-powered exterior lights, a new privacy fence, water heater and furnace replacements and energy-saving window and siding replacements on the house rental at the property. The City of Missoula awarded us HOME grand funds to accomplish this work.
In Anaconda, Hearthstone residents are already seeing the benefits of their new kitchen ranges in their homes thanks to Montana Emergency Rental Assistance (MERA) and Housing Trust Fund (HTF) grant funds in partnership with the Montana Department of Commerce. Improvements include new timers for added safety and sidewalk repairs to improve mobility and accessibility. We’re also installing new NSPIRE-compliant smoke detectors in every apartment—including ADA strobe detectors where needed—underscoring our commitment to safe, healthy homes.
These improvements to our properties across the state are more than just repairs—they’re investments in dignity, safety and long-term stability for the people who call our communities home.
“The properties that I grew to love while working as property manager for Tamarack Property Management before coming to Homeword – now I get to improve them and make them even better,” said Tori Rushfeldt, asset project manager at Homeword. “That means the lives of the residents I also grew to love and admire improve as well. I love what I do.”
None of this work would be possible without our incredible funding partners, grantors and collaborators who believe in our mission. From sustainability solutions to essential health and safety improvements, every contribution helps us extend the lives of our properties and deepens the impact we have on the lives of our residents. Together, we’re strengthening communities across Montana.
