Oxnard veteran receives kitchen remodel with help of local volunteers

Story by Monica Lara Special to The Star, posted October 9, 2013

Severe water damage left Oxnard veteran Ruben Araiza, 65, without a working kitchen in his mobile home for about six months.  The problem compounded when he had to set aside fixing his home to take on a large part in caring for his 93-year-old mother, Mary, who was facing serious health complications. Spending about 90 percent of his time with her in Los Angeles County, his home grew even more neglected. “Anytime I used water to wash dishes, I’d have to use the water in the bathroom,” Araiza said.  Helping turn around Araiza’s life, the Home Depot Foundation through its Oxnard store kicked off a restoration project Wednesday to clear out the damaged area, rebuild his kitchen and give him back his home.