Organization Seeks to Set Home Repairs Record

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) — A Midlands organization is trying to beat its own record of how many homes it can repair in less than a week, and the big winners are the elderly and disabled, whose homes need some TLC. The faith-based organization, Home Works of America, is at it again, on a mission to repair nine homes in five days, even in the rain. Rain can wreak havoc on any construction site, but not when the project is inspired by a higher power, according to officials. “We have the body of Christ represented,” said Director, Hank Chardos. To repair one house on Smith Street in Columbia, for example, costs an estimated $3,000. But thanks to Home Works, whose mission it is to make repairs to the homes of the elderly and disabled, the church mother who lives there doesn’t have to pay. In fact, she wasn’t even at the house while it was being fixed up, opting to be at church, instead, to give thanks. Hers is one of nine houses to be fixed up in five days. A second house on Blue Ridge Terrace is on the list, too. Qualified homeowner, Lola V. Mack, couldn’t be happier. “Praise, God. oh, I’m so blessed,” said Mack. A third house on Highland Forest Drive will get a facelift. Volunteers, like those who drive from Florida, say such service projects reach far beyond the Midlands. “We do help out in the Florida region, but I think it’s taking a journey. It’s a like a leap of faith and it’s more a way to connect with other people and God,” said church volunteer, Anthony Deavila. Officials say .97 cents of every dollar goes to pay for materials needed to make necessary repairs. And they say they’re always in need of more donations and volunteers. For more information, go to www.homeworksofamerica.org or call 803-781-4536.