This is a story about stewardship, a virtue that makes God's love visible through diligence and generosity with gifts. The story illustrates how stewardship, particularly in caring for homes, can be a profound act of love, resulting in the thriving of the people who call those places home.
West Clearbrook Home, a BC Housing property, has been under Bethesda’s stewardship since 1996. For Jamie and Amber, it has been their home from the very beginning, while Amy and Rachel joined more recently. Bethesda approaches their responsibility for their BC Housing homes with the same commitment and attention as if they were their very own. And because stewardship is a core value at Bethesda, the homes are consistently monitored, maintained, and any identified needs are prioritized, whether it involves renovation, rebuilding, or new purchases.
At West Clearbrook Home, new windows, doors, and yard fencing were recently installed. Linda, the manager of the home, reflects on the significance of doing upkeep, explaining it not only represents good stewardship of existing assets but also sends a powerful message to the residents and their families. “It signals to the people living here, and their parents, that this is their home, we’re here to stay for them, and this is a home where they can live out their lives.”, she says. Rachel, one of the residents, expresses the importance of this stability, saying, “I like living here, and I don’t want to have to move somewhere else.”
The sense of predictability and assurance extends to the parents as well. Amy’s mother, Vicki, is comforted by the knowledge that the organization is deeply committed to the well-being of their loved ones. She shares, “When we see the care and attention Bethesda puts into maintaining the home, I feel confident that they have the best interests of Amy in mind. We don’t have to worry.” Bethesda believes it is important that people are proud of the homes they live in. Every person deserves a home where they can live a valued and rewarding life.
Amber and Amy stayed at Harrison Hot Springs during the renovation. They were accompanied by Amy’s mother, Vicki and one of the support staff, Rebecca (not in the photo).
Past renovations to the home have included accessibility upgrades, such as an expanded and updated kitchen, wider hallways, and expanded bedrooms to enhance livability. The latest renovations have focused on improving safety and security, ensuring that the windows, doors, and perimeter are attractive and in excellent condition.
As the home is owned by BC Housing, the agency was responsible for providing the funding for these changes. Walter, Bethesda’s Chief Assets and Development Officer, explained how Bethesda is able to access BC Housing funding and navigate the complex process. He explains, “The funding is there, but accessing it can be a complicated process and needs industry expertise to guide it. He acknowledges Bethesda is somewhat exceptional because it has been able to create the position he holds. He adds, “Most organizations like ours don’t have that capacity in place.” With his full-time position and years of experience as a general contractor, we are able to maintain and update our homes to a high standard.
The latest renovations to the home were focused on improving safety and security. With the windows, doors and fencing in excellent condition, the people who live in the home families and staff can feel secure.
During the renovation, Rachel and Jamie stayed in the home and watched. It was interesting for both of them for different reasons. Rachel recognized some of the crew from her high school in Langley and went on the company’s webpage to find out more about them and the work they do. Jamie’s fascination was held by all the construction tools and activity. He was also proud to volunteer to test if the doorways were adequately accessible in his wheelchair.
Amber and Amy on the other hand, left for a 3-day retreat to Harrison Hot Springs Resort. They took full advantage of their time at the resort, taking leisurely walks along the trails and lakeshore on the sunny autumn days, posing with the local Sasquatches, doing a bit of shopping for souvenirs, sharing stories, and immersing themselves in the soothing, restorative waters of the hot springs pool.
Linda says, “Coming home to the reveal wasn’t a huge surprise, they didn’t really notice the new windows, but they do appreciate knowing that their home is safe and secure and that it will provide many years of peaceful living.” Families, too, are grateful for this added reassurance. Vicki, Amy’s mom, highlights, “As a parent, the safety of your child is always at the forefront, so knowing Amy’s home is safe and secure provides that extra bit of assurance.”
The final touch to this reno story is what lies ahead next spring. Rachel, with her keen eye for beauty, is envisioning an attractive coloured front door to complement the new look of the home. Linda shares that Rachel will be working with Vicki, who is gifted in home design. She adds, “The vibrantly coloured front door will symbolize the unique personalities of the people living in this special place and will project a warm message: ‘Welcome to my home.’”
Rachel thinks a lot about her home and her place in it. It was her idea to have a peephole installed at a height she can access in her wheelchair to increase her sense of security. She is now excited to paint the door a colour that will express to the world her feelings of belonging.
Cover image shows the newly installed windows of West Clearbrook Home with freshened up trim.
We are grateful to Legacy Windows & Doors of Surrey, BC for a job well done. It can be trying to live amid a home renovation, but at all times, the crew was respectful of the two residents who stayed in the home while they worked. We appreciated how well they communicated with them and the staff, and their willingness to accommodate and minimize the disruption as much as possible.
