My name is Mel. I’m Thai-American and have called Portland home for the past 15 years. I have two sons, 22 and 14, who are my whole world. Last year, we lost my husband — the rock and breadwinner of our family — to cardiac arrest. His passing turned our lives upside down. I had been a graphic designer but left the workforce years ago to raise my boys full-time, so this sudden change left me feeling lost and unsure of how to move forward.

When I heard about APANO’s Home Energy Assessment Program, I decided to give it a try — and I’m so glad I did. In just one hour of their visit, I learned so much about my home. Growing up in Thailand, I always believed that houses needed wind blowing through them for good ventilation. I didn’t realize that what I was feeling was actually a draft — and that the big gap under my back door was why my house was always too hot or too cold (and why my utility bills were so high!). I also thought my roof and attic insulation were enough, but I found out my home needed much more. After APANO added new insulation, the difference was incredible. Now when I come home after my retail shift, the house stays cool even on hot summer evenings.

APANO staff also connected me with the Multnomah Woodburning Exchange Program so I could receive a no-cost heat pump. With that, plus the insulation, air sealing, and high-efficiency bathroom fan installed by APANO’s contractor, my home feels so much more comfortable — and the air is cleaner, too.

Before, we had a gas furnace, and I always worried about gas leaks, especially if there was an earthquake. Now that my house is fully electric (and I even learned my water heater was electric all along — who knew!), I feel much safer. The heat pump also gives us air conditioning, which means I no longer have to wrestle with a heavy window A/C unit — something that was hard for me to do on my own since my husband passed away.

I’m so grateful to APANO for all the support they’ve given me and my family. Our home feels safer, healthier, and more like a refuge. Even my bunny, Kuma, seems happier — so thank you from both of us!