When uncertainty rises, focusing on needs over wants and building even a modest emergency cushion can provide stability. Reviewing financial plans, seeking available community resources, and staying flexible can help maintain control and protect well‑being during rapidly changing circumstances.
We know the financial impacts of the recent immigration enforcement activities in our community may take time to fully understand. Habitat remains deeply committed to supporting and stabilizing housing for all our neighbors. If you missed last night's Volunteer & Learn webinar on financial resilience, you can view the slide deck at this link or on the Homeowner Resource Hub under Financial Management. If you or your family are experiencing financial hardship connected to recent events or the uncertainty they’ve created, please reach out to homeowner@tchabitat.org.
Monthly Maintenance - Inside Your Home
Cooktop Filters
Clean cooktop and filters– Managing the excess grease from cooking is important because that grease is flammable and the buildup over time can be dangerous. Make sure you’re cleaning your cooktop regularly and if you have an exhaust fan, either in a standalone range hood or on the underside of a microwave over the stove, you’ll need to clean the filter about once a month.
Inside Oven
Clean the inside of your oven– Similar to your cooktop and exhaust fan, the inside of your oven can develop a buildup of grease and cooking detritus that not only is flammable but also makes your oven work harder and therefore shortens it’s lifespan. Depending on how often you use your oven you might need to clean the inside of it once every 3-6 months.
Vacuum Lint from Dryers
Vacuum lint from your dryer vent– The dryer is one of the most flammable appliances in your home due to the buildup of lint inside the vent tube. Cleaning both inside the dryer and the vent to the exterior will help keep your family safe. We recommend cleaning the vent tube once or twice a year.
Furnace Filters
Check your furnace air filter and replace it if necessary– The filters for your HVAC get clogged with all the dust and debris circulating through your house over time and need replacing at least every three months to keep your furnace functioning properly. While this buildup isn’t flammable like your kitchen or dryer it will wreck your furnace if you don’t change it regularly.
Cleaning Behind Appliances
Clean your kitchen appliances– Your other kitchen appliances need cleaning too, both inside and out. Pull your refrigerator out and remove any dust or debris from the coils on the back of the refrigerator to keep it running smoothly and to extend it’s lifespan. We recommend doing this every six months.
Upcoming Habitat Events
Preventing Water Damage and Mold During Melting Season
Thursday, March 12, 2026
6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity Office 1954 University Ave. W., St. Paul, MN 55104 Light refreshments provided
As snow and ice begin to melt, your home can be especially vulnerable to water damage and mold. In this session, we will discuss simple, proactive steps to prevent leaks, manage drainage, monitor basements and foundations, and reduce moisture buildup. Join us on March 12 at our office to learn what to watch for, how to respond early, and how to protect your investment during melting season.
Build confidence in your finances and start planning for what’s next. This session with Landy Mattison will cover budgeting tips and visionary goal-setting strategies. We will explore planning for common financial milestones such as saving for education, planning for vacations, taking on home updates, or preparing for retirement.
Christ Church on Capitol Hill and Minnesota State Capitol
Rally together with Habitat supporters from across the state at the Minnesota State Capitol on Thursday, April 16! You'll experience an inspiring program, have the chance to meet with your legislators, and you'll get all the training you need to advocate effectively. Habitat on the Hill is completely free. All you need to bring is your passion for Habitat’s mission. You’ll receive a light breakfast, boxed lunch, and Habitat swag.
Tax season is coming, and you may be eligible for free tax preparation at a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) site. Eligibility is based on meeting one of the following criteria:
You are age 60 or older
You are a person with a disability
You speak limited or no English
Your annual income is less than $67,000
If this is you, look for a VITA site near you to assist with your income tax preparation this year.
Black-owned, Minnesota-based TurnSignl is an on-demand, real-time subscription service that provides 24/7 legal guidance from an attorney to drivers while their camera records the interaction. When drivers are stopped by law enforcement officers or involved in a car accident, they can access live video chat with an attorney at the press of a button. TurnSignl attorneys are vetted and trained to de-escalate interactions between police, drivers, and passengers.
In January 2026, TurnSignl launched a premium subscription that includes access to an immigration attorney. The cost of this service is $99 a year. Habitat has partnered with TurnSignl in the past; we want to make all aware of this service.
Share Your Story With the Habitat Community
Every Habitat homeowner has a valuable story to share. Publicly sharing your homeownership experience inspires our community, improves awareness of the importance of homeownership, and helps more families buy homes. There are several ways to share your story! If interested, please email: homeowner@tchabitat.org.
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