“Hope for Homes” is a project to assist the elderly, low-income and disabled with needed home repairs. Applications are being accepted by Big Five Community Services, limited to the first 100 applications. Applicants must own their home and have a household income at or below $39,600. Applications must be returned with all required documentation no later than January 25, 2012.
The project is in partnership with The Group Cares Mission Trips of Loveland, Colorado, who have coordinated short-term youth mission trips to conduct hands-on home repair projects for qualifying families or individuals. Eligible home repair projects may include porch and step repair, exterior or interior painting, weatherization, wheelchair ramps, mobile home skirting and similar needs.
Also partnering in “Hope for Homes” is Rural Enterprises of Oklahoma, Inc. (REI). After applications have been reviewed, a time will be scheduled for volunteers to visit the home to assess the needed repair work. “We cannot guarantee to anyone that we will be able to work on their home,” said Tom Seth Smith, President & CEO, “but notifications will be sent at a later time to those qualifying for assistance.”
In July, 2012, church groups from across the country will spend one week in Durant to perform the home repair projects. The work at each home will be done by five young people and one adult leader. Labor and materials are absolutely free to qualifying households.
“Big Five is very excited about participating in this project,” Carol Ammons, Executive Director said. “We look forward to working with REI, community churches and organizations to enhance the quality of life for many deserving citizens.”
Big Five Community Services is located at 1502 N. lst Ave., Durant, and may be reached by calling 580.924.5331.