POUGHKEEPSIE – Rebuilding Together Dutchess County (RTDC) held their Fall Rebuilding Day – Saturday, October 22, as part of their Rebuilding Day Program. The non-profit completed repairs for three local homeowners, increasing the total number of homeowners served through the program this year to 15. Major renovations of all three homes included roofing, siding, drywall, gutter, flooring, plumbing and electrical repairs, installation of windows, doors, grab bars, handrails, and smoke detectors. The estimated market value of the repairs completed during October is over $75,000, an average of $25,000 per project.
Rebuilding Together Dutchess County Executive Director, Christina Boryk visited each of the projects on Saturday. “We believe in a safe and healthy home for every person,” she said.
“Each homeowner that we can help live in a warm, safe, and dry environment is a momentous success for our organization, our partners, and our community and helps preserve affordable housing in Dutchess County.”
Dana Argiropolous lives with her 88 year old mother and autistic son in their Poughkeepsie home. Because of their limited independence and income, the home was in need of gutter repairs, electrical upgrades, weatherization, and the elimination of tripping hazards. On Fall Rebuilding Day; a volunteer team from Dutchess County Association of Realtors was able to complete those necessary repairs for the homeowner and her family. “Now we have things in place that will make it easier and safer to get in and out of the house,” Dana said as she watched Rebuilding Together volunteers complete repairs throughout the home. “It makes a great difference in our lives.”
Local partners include volunteer teams from Entergy, Dutchess County Association of Realtors, IBM, and Lowe’s. Other program supporters include Dutchess County and Poughkeepsie South Rotary. 2016 Toolbox Heroes supporters providing in-kind donations and services include ABC Supply Company, Adams Fences, The Brothers that Just Do Gutters, Cleveland Plumbing, Fox Air, and Veith Electric.
Since 1992, Rebuilding Together Dutchess County has brought volunteers and communities together to improve the homes and lives of low-income homeowners in need, completing over 470 critical home repair projects in Dutchess County. To volunteer, make a donation or learn more about Rebuilding Together Dutchess County, visit www.RTDutchess.org.