In West Helena, a community in Phillips County, Arkansas, a unique opportunity is helping homeowners tackle repairs that might otherwise go unaddressed.

Through the Home Improvement Loan Program at Communities Unlimited (CU), residents across Arkansas can access up to $3,500 for home repairs. For homeowners in Phillips and Jefferson County, the program offers an added advantage — up to $2,500 is forgivable, making critical repairs more accessible for issues like leaking roofs, failing HVAC systems, flooring damage, or mold.

For Adrian Yarbrough, that opportunity came at exactly the right time.

A resident of West Helena for 11 years, Yarbrough has built her life in a home that, like many in the area, has weathered decades of use. Built in the 1970s, the house had begun to show its age — especially the roof.

“I had some roof damage, and it had started to leak,” Yarbrough said. “That’s what led me to look for help.”

During heavy rain, water seeped into her living room and bedroom, leaving stains and raising concerns about further damage.

That changed during a church service, when her pastor shared information about the program and its availability in Phillips County. Encouraged, Yarbrough applied and connected with CU Consumer Loan Officer Jesse Saldana.

“It was very smooth,” she said. “Jesse sent me the application, I sent pictures of the work that needed to be done, and once I was approved, the funds were deposited within days.”

Yarbrough received her loan in November 2025 and quickly moved forward with repairs.

Contractors discovered three layers of old shingles — evidence of years of patchwork that had finally failed. The roof had to be completely stripped before replacement.

Despite the scope of the project, the work was completed in a single day.

The results were immediate.

“Before, I’d have a lot of leaking,” Yarbrough said. “I don’t have that problem anymore.”

The impact went beyond the repair itself. Her insurance company had warned she could lose coverage if the roof wasn’t fixed — a risk that has now been eliminated.

“Now that’s no longer an issue,” she said. “That’s been a big advantage.”

For Yarbrough and her family, the project restored both stability and peace of mind.

“It’s made a big difference,” she said. “I was able to get the work done quickly, and it’s been economical for me since I can make payments.”

She also emphasized the support she received throughout the process.

“Jesse was helpful — always nice and kind whenever I called,” Yarbrough said.

Since launching the Home Improvement Loan Program in Arkansas in February 2025, the program has provided 16 loans totaling $76,000 across Jefferson and Phillips counties. It continues to serve as a vital resource for rural homeowners, offering flexible financing and a straightforward path to addressing essential repairs. In counties like Phillips, the forgivable portion makes that path even more attainable.

That access led to one simple but powerful outcome: Adrian Yarbrough no longer has to worry when it rains.