Progress is being made in Dumas, Arkansas, to address housing challenges, thanks to the collaboration between Communities Unlimited (CU) and Simmons Bank.

This partnership has led to the implementation of the Fortified Roof Program, aimed at providing durable roof replacements for low-income families, elderly residents, and others in need. That work began to show tangible results in late September 2024.

Latriana Robertson, Community Development Specialist at Simmons Bank, explained that her role involves ensuring the organization engages with the communities where they operate. The goal is to build partnerships with organizations focused on improving opportunities for low- to moderate-income individuals.

Robertson described how Simmons Bank got involved with CU in Dumas. Robertson shared that a colleague, Ateca Foreman, Director of Fair and Responsible Banking, had reached out about Kapriskie Mack, a Community Housing Technician at CU, who was seeking support from Simmons.

Robertson said they quickly connected and felt like kindred spirits. Mack’s work aligned perfectly with Simmons’ goals, and Robertson was especially excited because the area Mack was focused on, Dumas, was close to Robertson’s hometown of Pine Bluff.

This connection led to Simmons Bank partnering with CU to offer the Fortified Roof Program through the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas (FHLB Dallas), allowing qualifying homeowners to receive roof repairs without any out-of-pocket cost.

“We have access to grant programs that provide opportunities for homeowners to make repairs or for first-time homebuyers to get assistance,” Robertson said. “The Fortified Roof Program was a perfect fit for Dumas, and I knew we had to move forward.”

The program has already impacted five homeowners in Dumas, including longtime resident Devezine Smith, who has lived in her house for 60 years. She shared how the program came into her life just when she needed it.

Chris Walker, owner of Nex-Gen Power Systems & Roofing, was brought in by CU and Simmons Bank to carry out the roofing installations.

“To come into a community that’s frankly underserved and do something special for them, it’s just awesome,” Walker said. “There could be more down the line, but to come down here and do these five has been an absolute privilege and we’re happy to be here.”

A fortified roof takes longer to install but offers more significant protection. Walker explained that a fortified roof, designed to withstand high winds, is crucial during severe storms like tornadoes. When the asphalt shingles are torn off a traditional roof, there’s nothing to prevent rain from entering the home, which can cause significant damage. This often leaves families displaced for six months to a year while waiting for repairs, creating major disruptions for both the families and the community.

“With a fortified roof, even if the shingles are lost, the water won’t penetrate the house, and families can return to their homes almost immediately,” Walker said.

Another Dumas resident, Monica Allen, who has lived in her home in Dumas for eight years, expressed her gratitude for the new roof.

“My roof was leaking badly from my room to the bathroom,” Allen said. “I applied for the program, and when I got the call that I was approved, I was shocked and happy at the same time. I’m so thankful for Communities Unlimited because now I don’t have to worry when it rains.”

CU and the Dumas Housing Taskforce, led by Linda Weatherford, have been instrumental in identifying homes that need repairs and coordinating efforts. Mack shared her excitement about the impact these projects are having.

“It’s been so rewarding to see the progress we’re making in Dumas,” Mack said. “The residents here are so motivated to see their community thrive, and it’s been a joy working with them. The connections we’ve built through this project are amazing.”

Audra Butler, CU’s Area Director of Rural Housing, expressed that providing housing is truly life-changing for the people who receive it. As a long-time housing professional, she finds it deeply fulfilling, embodying the very essence of what housing work strives to achieve.

“It’s hard not to tear up when talking about it because our organization is truly making a difference in people’s lives,” Butler said. “We do this every day, but this project is especially visual — it’s about providing people with safe homes where they can stay in their community. It’s life-changing for them, but it’s also been a life-changing experience for us.”

With more projects on the horizon, the partnership between CU, Simmons Bank, and FHLB Dallas continues to make a lasting difference in Dumas.