NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — The City of Newport News and the City of Hampton teamed up with Habitat for Humanity to help transform the community.
Nearly 300 volunteers converged on Wythe neighborhood, on the border of Newport News and Hampton to make some much-need repairs to area homes.
Habitat for Humanity director of volunteer engagement, Maerine "Mimi" Mitchell said it's all about helping those who need it most.
“Some of them are seniors, some of disabled, some of them are in wheelchairs,” she said. “It makes them feel really good that there are people out here who care about them, who want to come and make a difference for them. They’re living longer in their homes, they can’t make the repairs like they want to. And so it also makes a big impact on the neighborhood. They get to see all of these people come together.”
It's called the Extreme Home Repair Blitz. It's a chance for the elderly, disabled, veterans, or low-income residents to get help making repairs to their homes.
John Quent, a test inspector supervisor at Newport News Shipbuilding, help oversee the work.
“We’re power-washing, painting, doing the landscaping. We’re going to try and repair as much of the landscaping as we possibly can,” Quent said.
“I own an old house and I’m always having a million and one projects to do that I can’t get to. So it’s awesome to come help someone knock out this stuff.”
Seventy-five-year-old Lorraine Davis lived in her home since 1968. She lost her husband a few years ago and hasn’t been able to keep up with the home, herself.
PHOTOS: Hampton, Newport News repair blitz
“I thank god for it every day. When the lady told me they were coming, I’ve been awake all morning,” Davis said.
“I can’t even stand up for 5 minutes. I was supposed to have knee surgery, but I didn’t get it.”
Her home is one of 14, getting some much needed TLC as part of Habitat for Humanity’s first-ever Extreme Home Repair Blitz.
The Extreme Home Repair Blitz provides exterior services such as:
- Repairs to ramps, rails, and porches
- Outside painting and siding
- Window repairs
- Power washing & debris removal
- Outdoor clean-up
All labor and materials are provided by community sponsors and volunteers to eligible homeowners for a minimal fee, possibly free.
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