August 3, 2022
In his quiet cabin in Smithville, Texas, George Dolan has landed far from his east coast beginnings in Long Island, but he has the accent to prove it. At a spry 73, George is full of stories and observations from his travels around the country and his military service between 1968-1971. It was during his time in Korea that George suffered a service related injury in his back that has stayed with him to this day which afforded him disability pensions and brought him to the Meals on Wheels Central Texas Home Repair Program. After retiring from a long standing career at Safeway in Arizona, George decided, with his daughter's encouragement, to move closer to her and buy a place in Texas. They found his cozy cabin in Smithville in 2011, which he lived comfortably in until the home fell into disrepair. The main issue says George was the roof needing to be replaced and upgrades throughout his home that went beyond his fixed income. “I really am grateful" says George, “a new roof can be close to $10,000!" Thanks to the funding from The Home Depot Foundation, George received a new shingle roof, secure storm doors, and laminate flooring throughout the house and an updated bathroom which included a much needed walk in shower with safety handles. "They did a top notch job," enthuses George. George spends a lot of time enjoying the quiet and spending time with his neighbors. His daughter who lives nearby visits on occasion. With the upgrades throughout his home, George can age comfortably in place. "I plan to stay here as long as I can," says George.