Energy Improvements Make ‘Big Difference’ for Retired Couple
Randy and Elsa Gonzales were young newlyweds when they bought their home in Harwich 45 years ago. It was a fixer-upper and they did their best to keep up with repairs, she says, but in recent years, the house needed more work than they could manage.
It was a blessing when her fuel assistance provider suggested Housing Assistance’s Energy Department arrange for a home energy assessment.
The couple qualified for exterior re-siding, new insulation, roof repairs, new windows and more, at no cost to them. Work started in December and was completed in January.
“They came in, they did the work, they cleaned up. It was like, wow!” said Elsa. “I’m still sitting back going, I can’t believe this. I figured they could give me a hand fixing my windows. Well, they totally surprised me – beyond belief. I got new windows, new shingles, a new roof and a new heating system, which I never dreamed of. I can’t thank them enough. I really can’t.”
Randy is a retired landscaper, and Elsa was a laundry worker for many years. This winter was a lot more comfortable for the couple and their dog, Tommy. “I don’t have the drafts coming through the house anymore,” Elsa shared. “There are no more leaks in my ceiling. It’s made a big difference.”
She has already encouraged a friend to sign up for an energy audit. “I want to thank everybody so much from the bottom of my heart,” she said. “You don’t know what a blessing that was.”
