Contractor Raheem David is a Rebuilding Together Philadelphia volunteer. He was building wooden steps to replace a few loose cinder blocks that the homeowner used before. He said he was happy to give back to the neighborhood he grew up in.
"Being raised by a single mother, knowing the struggles of her trying to repair things herself with no man around, it means a lot to be able to come back and help out some people who can’t afford the services, that don’t have the resources to do so," he said.
57-year-old Laura Francis lives near 58th and Arch Streets. She had extensive plumbing and roof work done in the past by the organization. Today, she was getting her yard cleaned out. "I'm really trying not to cry right now, but I'm really grateful for everything for this program. This program is really a great program," she expressed.
"Normally you will see about 200 volunteers out here," said Stefanie Seldin, president and CEO of the nonprofit, "but unfortunately we are not going to get (those) cost effective repairs today. But Rebuilding Together is so excited to be back out here, working for struggling homeowners, revitalizing Philadelphia blocks one block at a time, and doing it safely."