Volunteer-Led Home Repair Program Helps Taos Residents Stay Safely Housed

Many low-income, disabled, and housing-insecure residents in Taos live with home repair needs that can quickly become safety concerns. Without the financial resources for accessibility improvements, weatherization, or basic repairs, households can face worsening conditions that make it harder to remain safely and comfortably in their homes.

To meet this need, a volunteer board member raised the idea during a Housing Action Team meeting. Follow-up conversations with partners, including Taos Behavioral Health, confirmed that a volunteer-driven repair effort could fill an important gap—and from there, a solution emerged.

With support from LOR, High Desert Helping Hands will purchase shared tools, equipment, and a trailer to launch a volunteer-led repair program serving at least 36 homes in the Town of Taos during its first year. The effort will draw on 12 active volunteers with building experience and accept referrals from counselors and service providers who work directly with families. Repairs will focus on accessibility modifications, weatherization, and safety improvements that can be completed quickly and without requiring residents to relocate.

To support long-term sustainability, Taos Behavioral Health has committed approximately $60,000 in its 2026 budget for materials and specialized labor. Together, these investments will help ensure more Taos households can maintain stable, safe housing while easing stress for residents already navigating significant challenges.