National Rebuilding Day: Rebuilding Together Metro Chicago Offers Complimentary Home Repairs Throughout Cook County

In a remarkable display of community spirit, Rebuilding Together Metro Chicago undertook the monumental task of repairing and modifying over 60 homes in just one day. This initiative, which unfolded across Cook County, was part of the broader effort known as National Rebuilding Day.

The organization, in collaboration with a dedicated team of volunteers and skilled trade unions, aimed to provide life-changing and free home repairs to those in need. The focus of these efforts was to ensure that homes were warm, safe, and dry, particularly for elderly seniors who wish to age in place comfortably.

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“We are working on a total of 61 homes between Chicago and Maywood,” remarked Wanda Ramirez, CEO of Rebuilding Together Metro Chicago. She emphasized that the repairs prioritized essential living conditions, catering especially to the vulnerable elderly population.

Among those benefiting from this initiative was Angenette Smith, a long-time resident of the Austin neighborhood, who has called her house home since 1985. Her residence was in dire need of attention, and the efforts of the volunteers promised to make a significant difference in her living conditions.

ABC7 took the opportunity to speak with several homeowners who were receiving this much-needed assistance on Saturday, capturing the profound impact of this collective endeavor on the local community.

“Electrical, plumbing, flooring, ceiling, painting , the handicap stuff that I need for the bathroom,” Smith said.

Smith says the free home improvements will make her life a little easier, and save her money on costly repairs.

“One ceiling fan is just 400 dollars to replace,” Smith said. “Considering the price of the ceiling fan, there is so much money that I am saving.”

Rebuilding Together Metro Chicago says they are accepting applications on a rolling basis for homeowners in need of repairs.

“There is such a big need especially here in Chicago and Cook County,” Ramirez said. “Their families have grown up here. Their grandchildren are here. You know maintaining the stability of the neighborhood, of the community, of their housing stock so that they can own it and have it available for their next generations to come. That’s what it’s all about.”