Operation C.A.R.E. restores history - WALB.com, Albany News, Weather, Sports

Operation C.A.R.E. restores history

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By Stephen Abel - bio | email
Savannah Hill and Lauretta Gibbs Savannah Hill and Lauretta Gibbs

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THOMASVILLE, GA (WALB) -

Finances are tight for many families right now, that means money for home maintenance or improvements just isn't in the budget.

Here in south Georgia a lot of low-income families own historic homes.

One non-profit organization is stepping in to help them.

Savannah Hill and her family have lived here at 435 South Street in Thomasville for almost 60 years.

"I'm really kind of speechless right now, but just know that I'm grateful and I praise God and all the people that helped to make this project happen."

Hill's and several other Thomasville homes were chosen for Operation C.A.R.E. (Community Assisting Restoration Efforts).

The project is designed to help low income owners of historic homes with exterior repairs.

"In preserving historic homes it just maintains the character of the city. Older neighborhoods with houses that are 50 years and older, " said Program Coordinator Lauretta Gibbs

Gibbs says this project not only helps each individual homeowner, but it also raises property values throughout the city.

"We felt that it was important for persons coming through Thomasville to be able to look at a beautiful house as we explore and preserve."

And Hill says this assistance could not have come at a better time. "I thank everyone for making this all possible. I'm very grateful cause we were having a hard time and my husband is sick. A lot of things going on."

Gibbs says some of the homes date back to the 19th and early 20th centuries. "The next house we are going to look at is a house of one of our first black doctors in Thomasville and is on the black history tour."

In order for a home to be eligible for these upgrades, it must be 50 years or older, must have most of the original building materials intact, and have a sound roof and foundation.

 

For more information call Lauretta Gibbs at 229-379-0014 or email thurlow863@att.net.

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