The Velazquez Family

When Mi Casa, Inc. first began working on the renovation of its 36th single family project, a building awarded to us by, D.C.’s Home Again Program, it seemed as though the experience would not be unlike previous projects. That is, until the Emmy award-winning home improvement show, This Old House, asked to chronicle the step-by-step restoration of the 127 year old Shaw neighborhood row house.

Though the structure had endured years of neglect and damage, there was still a hint of its original elegance. With help from skilled contractors and professionals this unique partnership between a local non-profit developer and a renowned home improvement institution transformed the home into a harmonious combination of the original historic style with the comforts of modern amenities.

Once this three bedroom, two-bath home was almost complete Mi casa, Inc. began the process of uniting the house with its new family. When it became public that this restored home was marked to be sold to a moderate income family, the response was overwhelming. In the end, the house became the new home of the Velasquez family. For the family, made up of Francisco, a landscaper, Maria, a teacher, and their four children, this is a welcomed homecoming. Both parents are immigrants from El Salvador and have lived and laborer in the Washington area for over 16 years and are thrilled and proud to have the opportunity to provide this incredible home to their family.