Six years ago, Community Homes of Lebanon County, famous for providing comfortable and affordable housing for mostly seniors, recognized the market had changed. There is a critical need today for a broader audience, including the disabled, disadvantaged, and some younger individuals and families with special needs.
The organization and its caring Board of Directors decided to take action, resulting in the first eight units of a planned 23-unit handicap-friendly development in Lebanon called the Canal Street Affordable Housing Project, which is now occupied. As a result of this decision, lives have been changed for the better.
Meet Deb Tucker
Deb Tucker’s story is a good example of what the residents of this new development have gained... Most were housed in less desirable housing that put strains on monthly budgets. The rent is calculated on a sliding scale so that no one pays more than 30 percent of the household income for this expense.
“I love my new home,” says Deb. My old apartment had no windows. My new home has bright natural light and is very clean and comfortable.” The décor shows her pride in the new surroundings.
Deb no longer lives alone, thanks to a new kitten named Hazel (which means God has seen). They are both adjusting to their new lives together quite well.
She is very thankful to Calvary Chapel Pastors Dan VanVfleet and Thom Keller and his wife Sue for suggesting her new home and helping make it happen. “God has blessed me with great friends,” Deb observes. I can’t thank them enough for their care and concern.”
Deb’s life originated in Florida. Her first “career” was in banking, but her caring spirit eventually led her into nursing, a calling she felt was meant to serve.
That career, which led her to Pennsylvania, came to a crushing end in 2017 when she fell and broke her leg. It was then it was discovered she had cancer, which led to the amputation of her right leg and part of her hip. A long rehab process followed, but her faith and good spirit remained intact. She fully intends to continue to live an active life. “A steadfast faith in God and the support of good friends and family keep me strong.” She speaks.
Although none of them “live around here,” she feels the support of her children. Sons Denver, 39, and Taylor, 35, live and work in North Carolina. Charlie and Kay Tucker, parents, were both nurses. They met while serving in Japan.
Deb does not feel alone. She has a caregiver named Candy, who is both a companion and provides transportation to wherever she needs to go.
Ms. Tucker also has three brothers, who are scattered. They live in Arizona and Florida. And Oklahoma, but they all manage to stay in touch.
Deb’s positive spirit shines through when she provides a long answer to the question, “What makes you proud?’ She said….” I love the beauty in things. I love seeing a blue sky, and I feel like swimming in it. I love our American flag and seeing the glitter on the leaves as I look out my window. I love the kindness in people when I meet them.
