Homeowner: Annie Watson

Age: 86

Council District: 3

House location: Lanham

About the homeowner: A stroke victim, Annie Watson now uses a walker. Taking care of the house she has owned for forty-seven years has grown harder. She also has a difficult time leaving the house because all the exits have steps.

Her greatest concern: A wheelchair ramp would give access to the outside. A step in the rear needs paint and one shutter has fallen.

What we found: Annie Watson’s wheelchair ramp is a challenge. Her exit is on a slope and the layout and elevation of the house has made meeting code with the ramp very difficult. If it can be done, we’ll install it. The crew will also clean the outside areas, remove a shed and paint the rear steps. This house has been adopted by Gilbane Building Company.

House Captain: Rob Fisher

His Volunteer Experience: An employee of Gilbane Building Company, Rob is serving as lead house captain for the first time. Last year, he was an assistant.

His Reaction to his Homeowner: She is unable to go in and out of her house without lots of assistance from others and is very thankful to have us helping her.

His Comments on Christmas in April: It has been both a rewarding and challenging experience.