July Newsletter

A Look at the History of Self-Help Housing

SHE was recently visited by Tracy E. K'Meyer, Professor of History at the University of Louisville, to research the inception of the mutual self-help housing movement across America.

The roots of self-help housing can be traced to the 1930s and the American Friends Service Committee (AFSC), a Quaker service organization. It would later become a national program, including organized mutual self-help homebuilding in Goshen, CA.

K’Meyer toured SHE’s local developments, including a community in Woodlake, where she interviewed families working together to build their homes.

“One of the participants expressed her excitement to build a home for her children and the baby on the way," said K'Meyer. “While helping to build their community, she was already bonding with her future neighbors.” Read More

Supporting Our Community

During This Back-to-School Season

On Tuesday, July 19th, Self-Help Enterprises joined Family Services of Tulare County at their Back-to-School event in Goshen, CA. Together, they were able to provide 124 backpacks with school supplies to 61 families! The backpacks were well-equipped with supplies donated by SHE’s Emergency Services, Community Development, and Real Estate Development teams.

Rising costs have affected everything from rent to utility bills. The combined efforts helped ensure these families don’t have to worry about the additional costs associated with getting their students ready to take on the new school year.

Learn more about SHE’s Financial Assistance Programs

SHE Responds to Water Emergencies

Throughout the Valley

This month, SHE’s Community Development (CD) and Emergency Services (ES) teams proved to have a thriving partnership as they assisted in various community water emergencies throughout the Valley.

The teams responded to multiple emergencies in Kern County, including a community of 9 homes that required the installation of household tanks. They also delivered 60 gallons of bottled water to families in the area while working on restoring their well. Additional emergencies included drying wells in Seville and East Orosi, where the teams distributed bottled water to over 70 households.

“I am filled with gratitude for what we’re able to do to help families and communities in crisis,” said Jessi Snyder, SHE’s Community Development Director.

Extreme conditions of heat and drought continue to impact the San Joaquin Valley. Residents worried about the water inside their wells can contact SHE for emergency bottled water services, water tanks, well assessments, and water quality testing.

A Friend's Passing

SHE is deeply saddened by the recent passing of our friend Marilyn Doe, whose property donations helped improve the lives of families and children in Goshen. Via her generous contributions, SHE was able to develop affordable housing, a recreational area, a health care clinic, and commercial development. Their positive impact will continue as part of Marilyn's legacy.

We were inspired by her commitment to making Goshen a community of opportunity. Our deepest sympathies go out to her family and friends during this difficult time.

Upcoming Events

In August, SHE will celebrate two important milestones: The Grand Opening of Creekside Terrace in Mariposa and the Groundbreaking of The Neighborhood Village in Goshen.

Both of these communities will serve the needs of underserved Valley residents. They will also offer housing to people experiencing homelessness. Affordable rental apartments are essential to the sustainability of communities and the development of an overall vibrant environment. We are excited about these upcoming celebrations & look forward to the impact they will have!

Exciting Career Opportunities

Check out all the other opportunities to join our team!

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