Rock the Block^™

Rock the Block™ is a focused housing outreach approach that provides a path for residents, organizations, volunteers and Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity to come together to assist low income residents with needed repair, maintenance, weatherization, safety, accessibility and beautification of homes. 

Each Rock the Block™ event occurs in a targeted neighborhood where major rehabilitation and new construction are already underway or planned for the near future.

Residents identified that will benefit from Rock the Block™ services are given access to the following programs:

Critical Repair:  Interior or exterior work performed to alleviate critical health, life and safety issues or code violations.  Project can include:

• Accessibility modifications like a ramps, lever handles, door modifications
• Plumbing, electrical and mechanical extensions or installations
• Roof and porch repair

Weatherization:  Interior or exterior work to an existing home based on a comprehensive energy audit and a resulting defined scope of work.  Improvements focus on energy efficiency, indoor air quality and comfort and can include:

• Insulation, caulking, weather stripping, windows
• Energy efficient toilets, low flow water fixtures
• Mechanical system components and appliances

A Brush with Kindness (ABWK):  Exterior work including replacement of materials for the purpose of maintaining good or sound condition.  Examples of ABWK projects:

• Siding repair and painting
• Driveway and sidewalk repair
• Landscaping and tree trimming