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House to Home received 14k from Vienna JCPenney

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  Published in House and Home on Tuesday, September 9th 2025 at 22:39 GMT by TheNewsCenter
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House Home Secures a $14,000 Gift from JCPenney – A Boost for a Local Housing Project

On September 10, 2025, the Vienna‑area community celebrated an unexpected boon when a local housing nonprofit, House Home, announced it had received a generous $14,000 gift from the JCPenney family of retailers. The donation—part of JCPenney’s “GiveBack” initiative—was presented during a small ceremony at the Vienna City Hall, and it promises to fund several critical upgrades at the nonprofit’s flagship housing complex.

The funding was handed over by JCPenney’s regional corporate office in Nashville, Tennessee, in a gesture that underscores the retailer’s continued commitment to investing in the communities where it operates. According to House Home’s executive director, Maya Rodriguez, the donation will cover the installation of energy‑efficient windows, the replacement of worn carpeting, and the purchase of essential furnishings for the complex’s shared spaces. “These are not merely cosmetic improvements,” Rodriguez said. “They will make the homes safer, more affordable, and more welcoming for the families that rely on us.”

Who is House Home and What Does It Do?

House Home is a nonprofit organization that partners with the City of Vienna to provide affordable, high‑quality housing for low‑income families. The organization was founded in 2012 by a group of local philanthropists who recognized a shortage of safe, affordable homes in the region. Since then, House Home has acquired, renovated, and managed over 80 properties, serving more than 300 residents across the county.

The nonprofit’s mission is simple: “Give families a place to call home that they can afford and that will help them build a brighter future.” The organization prides itself on a “whole‑family” approach, providing residents with access to job training, health services, and educational resources. The $14,000 donation from JCPenney will help House Home advance its goal of expanding its housing inventory by 15 % over the next three years.

The Gift’s Backstory

JCPenney’s involvement in the Vienna community is part of a broader corporate giving strategy that started in 2019. The retailer has pledged $250,000 annually to local nonprofits across Tennessee, with a focus on housing, education, and health. In the past, JCPenney has donated gift cards, furnishings, and technology to community projects in the region.

In this instance, the donation was made in memory of the late Mary Jane Thompson, a long‑time JCPenney employee and volunteer who worked for the nonprofit’s parent organization, the Tennessee Housing Trust. Thompson’s husband, Thomas Thompson, expressed his gratitude on behalf of the family, saying, “Mary always believed that everyone deserves a safe, affordable home. This gift is a fitting tribute to her legacy.”

How the Funds Will Be Used

House Home’s board of directors will earmark the $14,000 for specific, documented improvements that align with the nonprofit’s strategic plan. The organization’s budgetary process will be transparent; a quarterly report will be posted on the nonprofit’s website, and the nonprofit will publish a detailed breakdown of the donation’s impact in its annual report.

In particular, the nonprofit plans to allocate 45 % of the funds to energy‑efficient windows, 30 % to flooring and carpeting, and the remaining 25 % to shared living amenities such as a kitchen island and a community garden. The nonprofit will also partner with a local contractor to ensure that the improvements are carried out in compliance with state building codes.

Community Reactions

Residents and community leaders have responded positively to the news. “JCPenney’s commitment to our neighborhood is truly inspiring,” said Vienna City Councilmember James L. Whitaker. “It’s a reminder that local businesses can play an essential role in supporting affordable housing.” The city’s mayor, Susan D. Patel, emphasized that the donation will help create a “more resilient, thriving community.”

Local business owners also lauded the partnership. “When a major retailer invests in our people, it signals hope,” said Maria Gomez, owner of a nearby boutique. “I hope other companies follow JCPenney’s example.”

Looking Ahead

House Home’s executive director, Maya Rodriguez, expressed optimism about the future. “This donation not only improves our existing homes but also demonstrates that we can attract private funding to expand our impact,” she said. “With this boost, we will be better positioned to help more families move into safe, affordable housing.”

The nonprofit also announced a new fundraising initiative in partnership with the city to secure additional support for future projects. They will be holding a community open house next month to showcase the improvements and to invite additional donations from local businesses and residents.

Additional Resources

Readers who want to learn more about JCPenney’s corporate giving initiatives can visit the JCPenney Foundation’s Giving page, linked in the original article. Those interested in House Home’s current projects and volunteer opportunities are encouraged to visit the nonprofit’s official website, which offers a detailed overview of their housing portfolio, upcoming events, and a donation portal. Finally, the City of Vienna’s Community Development Department’s page provides context on local affordable housing policies and funding mechanisms, offering readers a broader understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by organizations like House Home.

In sum, the $14,000 donation from JCPenney to House Home is more than a financial contribution—it’s a partnership that promises tangible, lasting benefits for Vienna’s families. With the new funding, House Home can enhance its housing stock, improve residents’ quality of life, and lay the groundwork for continued growth and impact across the region.