Charleston housing residents learning to paint

CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) — Residents of the Charleston Housing Authority are getting a chance to learn to be painters.

Beginning Monday, paint manufacturer Sherwin-Williams is holding a one-week program for 25 authority tenants to teach painting skills.

The idea is to improve the quality of life in low-income housing communities by teaching residents the importance of home maintenance. The company will train residents in painting and then link them with local painting contractors.

Sherwin-Williams provides the $35,000 worth of materials and instruction for free. The Charleston program concludes with a recognition program on Friday.

The Sherwin-Williams program began eight years ago and is now offered in 26 cities nationwide.