Fall Developments:

In Praise of Roofs

Dear Friends,

The week-long Jewish festival of Sukkot concluded just a few days ago. With mostly pleasant weather, many of us were able to enjoy meals with friends and family in our backyard sukkahs. These temporary, fragile structures—with their open roofs, allowing us to see the sky and stars—remind us of both shelter and vulnerability. And when it rained or the air turned too chilly, we had the choice to step inside to warmth and comfort.

But for many families in our greater DC community, that choice does not exist. Many live without reliable shelter. Some have no homes at all. Others live under roofs that leak and in homes without working heat. Their sukkahs are not symbolic or seasonal—they are year-round realities.

This edition of Developments is in praise of roofs. We are deeply grateful to our partner organizations, donors, and skilled tradespeople who work with Yachad to repair and replace roofs throughout the year. Their efforts give families a warm and dry place to live—a true home, not just a temporary shelter. Thank you for helping us build not just houses, but dignity, stability, and hope.

With appreciation,

Audrey Lyon

Executive Director

Thank you to the Coalition and Wood &Whitacre Roofing

Over the past 12 months, Yachad has repaired or replaced roofs and gutter systems on 11 homes, investing more than $60,000 in these critical repairs. Roof repairs were often the first step in broader home remediation efforts, providing a solid foundation for further safety and health interventions.

This work was made possible through the generous support of the COALITION (formerly CNHED) and its Senior Home Stabilization Program, which reimbursed Yachad for roof repairs on homes owned by residents aged 60 and older. Additional funding from Yachad’s other key partners ensured that younger homeowners also received the urgent repairs they needed.

Yachad’s trusted roofing partner, Jeffrey Woods of Wood & Whitacre, and his dedicated crews delivered high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, ensuring that each home was left safe, secure, and dry for years to come.

Thanks to this vital work, 11 families no longer have to worry about water infiltration—an issue that can lead to mold, structural damage, and serious health risks. These repairs have not only preserved homes, but also restored peace of mind.

Clark Construction Works to Revitalize D.C. Home’s Electrical System and More

In late summer, Clark Construction began the critical work of replacing the electrical system in a Southeast D.C. home. As the project progressed, an unexpected discovery was made: an earlier fire, dating back to 1960, had caused damage that had never been properly repaired.

With the drywall removed from most of the first floor to access the electrical system, the team quickly addressed this long-overdue repair. The fire damage is now fully repaired, and the new electrical wiring is being installed. The remaining work—replacing the drywall—will be completed soon.

In addition to the electrical upgrades, the kitchen and bathroom will be renovated with new appliances and fixtures, making the home safer and more functional for the family.

The family is beyond excited to see their home restored, and so is Yachad! It’s a rewarding moment to witness this transformation and know that this family will soon have a fully updated and secure living space.

Consider being a partner in Yachad's work.

Become a Donor Today

www.yachad-dc.org