Members of two Chatham churches are gearing up for another summer of helping out a local homeowner.
For the past 12 years, First Presbyterian and First Christian Reformed Churches have joined forces to renovate the outside of a house for someone who is unable to -- whether that's for medical or economic reasons.
Volunteers are expecting to set aside two days in August for the Backyard Mission Project 2020, exact dates have yet to be set.
Mike Maroney, the minister at First Presbyterian Church, said it's just their way of doing something kind for someone in the community.
"This is free of charge to the homeowner," he said. "Our two churches raise money ourselves to pay for materials and of course we have about 40 to 50 volunteers [on site]. Also, businesses in the community have been very generous in helping us out."
The types of renovations volunteers have done in the past range from house painting, landscaping, and building a wheelchair ramp. However, due to liability concerns, roof repairs are not one of the things volunteers will be able to do.
Maroney said at this point, they're looking for nominations for which homeowner to help this summer. Residents can nominate themselves, a neighbour, a family member or friend in Chatham.
"People, I think, are a little skeptical about it -- like it's too good to be true but it really truly is free," he said. "It's something we do for people who for whatever reason have not been able to afford the upkeep to the outside of their house and the grounds."
The recipient must own and live in the home and have homeowner insurance in order to be eligible for the Backyard Mission. There is no set deadline to send in a nomination, however, Maroney said sooner is better than later.
Last year, the Backyard Mission tackled two home renovations, but Maroney said this year, they're sticking with one project.
"It was a lot of work to get done in two days so we're going back to our one home [model]," he said. "It really works best for us in terms of logistics."
Maroney said the feedback they have gotten from past renovation recipients includes, "I cannot believe you're doing this for me" and "I can't believe how beautiful everything looks." He said the positive feedback is just a bonus to the work they do.
Details on the application requirements or to nominate someone for the Backyard Mission can be found at firstchatham.org.