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The mission of Rutherford Housing Partnership is to provide urgently needed repairs to the homes of qualified low-income homeowners in Rutherford County. Together with the donations and volunteer help, they are making homes safe and accessible.
Indicative of the housing need is the Rutherford County Tax Office fact that 2,260 houses - 10% of county housing - are assessed with the condition of “poor”, “very poor”, or “not livable”! This is a shocking fact! The Rutherford Housing Partnership, founded in 1995, is trying to correct these startling figures. RHP provides materials, volunteers provide labor.
The partnership needs donations (you can become a sustaining partner for just $20 or $25 a month). It also needs laborers. If you are willing to work and help, RHP needs you. Qualified project leaders to oversee and/or assess projects are also needed. With the increased amount of work being done by roofing companies, an idea emerged. If each commercial roofing company could donate the labor for just one house, it would be a big help. RHP would provide the materials. It would be a great way for commercial roofing companies to give back to the community.
Another great way to help if you are unable to volunteer is to donate at the Habitat Restore who is in partnership with RHP. Proceeds from the ReStore benefit both organizations. You will also be amazed what items they need. Fund raising spaghetti suppers before the Carolina Gospel Association concerts at R-S Central High School are also beneficial. The annual Gears and Gables - a ride for housing in downtown Rutherfordton will be held this year on Saturday, May 5th. You are invited to sponsor or ride. Just call 828-245-0716.
Executive Director, Nell Bovender, says she is “constantly amazed on how well we are received.” She also welcomes skilled professionals to help. Youth groups from ten churches have been very helpful. More groups would be welcomed. Also, RHP is gradually and finally getting some grant support. Don’t forget - your contributions are tax deductible.
The big thing to remember is that Rutherford Housing Partnership always provides the materials. Their need is twofold. First, volunteers and skilled workers who will donate their labor and time and second, donations so that RHP can buy the materials needed. You can volunteer as little as one day a week. All help is definitely welcomed.
The best thing to remember is that when you donate or volunteer to help, you come away with a great “feel good” mood. Your personal contributions are an experience which not only helps others but enriches your lives. You can call: 828-248-3431 or mail a contribution to PO Box 1525, Rutherfordton, N. C. 28139.
Go ahead - make yourself feel better!
