Duran Family Receives Crucial Repairs for Home in Dinuba

Duran Family Receives Crucial Repairs for Home in Dinuba

Posted on January 31, 2025

In partnership with Self-Help Enterprises (SHE), the Duran family’s experience with the City of Dinuba Housing Rehabilitation Program highlights the profound impact of timely support for homeowners in need. Roberto and Martha Duran, who have owned their home since 2004, faced a series of challenges over the years, particularly as Roberto’s health declined and they struggled with limited income. The home they raised their family in, now housing their 11-year-old grandson, had deteriorated to the point of being unsafe.

The Durans first learned about the program when a flyer arrived at their home. After reading about the program, they immediately reached out to SHE, hopeful that it could help them repair their home. Their first application was denied because their income exceeded the program’s limit, but they didn’t give up. After reapplying, they were approved for a loan to begin much-needed repairs. 

The family then faced another obstacle: finding temporary housing while the work was being done. After months of frustration and rejected lease applications, their pastor offered them a mobile home on church property. This gave them a place to stay while the essential repairs on their home were underway. 

Once the repairs began, the Duran family saw dramatic changes. Their home, which had been plagued by a leaky roof, faulty electrical wiring, and other safety hazards, was now undergoing vital upgrades. Through the program, they received a new roof, new air conditioning, updated electrical systems, and new flooring in the kitchen and bathroom. These repairs were essential to restoring safety and comfort to the home, allowing the Durans to move back in this past December to a much safer and more livable space. 

Before the repairs, Roberto, who had been facing significant health challenges that made it difficult for him to manage repairs, was unable to address the home’s issues himself. “The house was in terrible condition,” Roberto said. “The roof leaked when it rained, and the electrical system hadn’t worked properly for years.” With support from SHE, these hazards were eliminated, and the home was transformed into a safer and more functional space. “It’s like a completely different house now. It’s more lively, safer, and just feels like home,” Roberto shared. 

Recently, the City of Dinuba was awarded a $1,500,000 CalHome grant to further support its housing programs, with $750,000 specifically allocated for housing rehabilitation. This program is critical in preserving and improving the aging homes of the San Joaquin Valley, offering families like the Durans the chance to live in safer, healthier environments. 

For the Durans, the repairs didn’t just fix their house—they restored their hope. “I never thought I’d see my house look like this again,” Roberto said. “Now, it feels like a new beginning.” 

If you’re interested in learning more about the City of Dinuba’s Housing Rehabilitation Program or other housing rehabilitation programs throughout the San Joaquin Valley that Self-Help Enterprises implements, you can get more information by contacting 559-802-1647 or emailing housingrehab@selfhelpenterprises.org.