Merced, CA – 9-15, 2025

A talented group of 14 young men from Ohio served in Merced, CA, the week of February 10 – 14.  Gerry Hughes, the brother of our Crew Leader, Ralph Hughes, from Manitoba, stayed to served his second week. Once again, we long term volunteers give them a thumbs up when it comes to work ethic, flexibility, faithful stewardship and friendliness.  They were sometimes split into 6 groups.  As they completed some projects, they were able to travel back and forth between jobs at times.  Work included painting, a bathroom demolition, tiling, plumbing, removing and replacing doors and cabinets, insulation, drywalling work and building a cabinet for a hot water heater.  Next week will be more of the same.

A highlight of this week was an idea of our Project Director, Bob Martin.  The California MDS unit suggested we paint the outside of the building that the owner has been letting use as a warehouse.  A coat of paint was put on and windows were replaced with wood.  On Tuesday, February 11, the local school came walking up the sidewalk by class and grade level.  At the site, each student had their hands painted with a bright primary colors, and they made handprints on their designated place on the outside of the building.  Teachers added theirs with their class’s.  The principal and superintendent, as well as local government and Habitat for Humanity representatives were also in attendance. Approximately 600 students participated, TK to Grade 5.  What a blessed time we had!!!  We have become quite popular in the area.  This building has a long history, and it served to break down some walls as people stop by regularly.