MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A first-time homeowner and mother of five just got a major home repair thanks to Milwaukee County.

Cynthia Estes bought her home in St. Francis last year. 

Around Christmas, she discovered her water lateral was leaking and needed to be repaired.

Faced with a massive repair bill around the holidays, she reached out to the Department of Health and Human Services' Housing Division for help. 

The Home Repair Department helped her apply for grants, and she was able to get the repair done at no cost Tuesday.

"Just the process and the thought with five kids...having my water turned off was just totally overwhelming," Estes said. 

Milwaukee County wants other homeowners to know this service is available. 

Qualified applicants can get grants or zero-interest loans for up to $20,000 for emergency repairs. 

For more information, contact the Housing Division at (414) 278-4894.