Hearts and Hands

A cluster of six small homes sit facing each other at the end of a gravel road. The homes are small, unmatched, and at first glance unremarkable. It isn’t until you understand that each donated home was actually moved in entirety to its tiny lot, then prepared for occupancy, that you begin to know the formidable determination and understand the gentle heart of the woman who lives here as well, among the grateful families she has helped. Without her, the probability is that they would not have a roof over their heads.
Not all of the houses are occupied. Two of the latest acquisitions sit empty, facing the small, newly grass-sodded play area and bare community garden plot. The empty houses need electrical and plumbing work. They need sheetrock, paint, a host of details; small things done in anticipation of a loving family presence. There is drainage work to be done on the newly formed road. The need is great. The telephone rings constantly, and her sadness is apparent as she answers the calls; this community has no homes available, at least not right now.
Answering the call of Jesus is easy, when you spend an afternoon with her and with the residents.
The single mother who smiles as she pitches in to help clean up, the physically challenged teenager who shyly shows a hand-written page of her prayers… these are all reasons to “Come see”, as Mother Teresa often said… and what you do see will move you… to compassion. “Come see”, and you will stay to help for a few hours.

CHC teens spent a week here this summer, building decks and a playground, laying sod, singing, laughing, and praying in the blistering heat.

And now, the first volunteer work day ... Much was accomplished! Piles of debris washed in by the recent rain, boards, sticks, and rubbish were carted off, and a beautiful flower garden now welcomes residents to the cul-de-sac.

The weather is much cooler now, and we plan to continue clearing around the greenhouse, in anticipation of starting seeds for the community garden. There is also plumbing, electrical, sitework, raking, clean-up, mowing, planting, and more to be done.

After we work in the cool of the morning, lunch will be shared with the residents.

Needed expertise: electrical… plumbing….sheetrocking…strong backs and willing hearts…