Perry, FL – SYP – June 29 – July 5, 2025

Some of the weekly volunteers from Loogootee, IN, were familiar faces to our project director and construction supervisor.  They had previously served in Dawson Springs, KY, two years ago building new homes.  The work was different for them this week as repairs from hurricanes were made.  The energy and enthusiasm they brought was always evident as they worked hard to complete the work that needed to be done.   

At Ms. Annie’s house, drywalling and painting, installing cabinets, baseboards and window trim was done.  The countertop was also installed.   

At. Mr. Eldon’s a variety of “extra” jobs were done—mudding the ceiling, cleaning mold off walls, as well as cleaning light fixtures and air vents.  He was very pleased to see the results of the volunteers’ labor. 

Ms. Patty’s house had volunteers mudding and sanding and painting drywall.  Some worked on siding, decking, and window boxes.  Outside work was sometimes done between showers.  The benefit of the rain was cooler temperatures.   

We took on several new jobs in Steinhatchee (which was renamed “Steamyhatchee by some of the volunteers).  At the Wirick’s, they fixed decking.  At Dan’s house they took down an old roof, damaged when a tree fell on it, and finished rafters before beginning to reroof the house.  Floor repair was done as well as putting up drywall.  An outside wall was repaired and painted. 

At the Whitt’s house a new bathtub was installed and they put in plumbing for a kitchen sink.  Cabinets were hung and doors and casing placed.  The deck was a major focus as winds from the hurricanes had “rearranged” their deck. 

At Buster’s house they hung drywall, adjusted the front door to fit, and worked on finishing the drywall.   

The volunteers enjoyed opportunities to interact with the homeowners.  Taking time to hear their stories brought a great deal of meaning to their work experience. An evening with a seafood meal and a trip to the beach were quite memorable. 

Our group said goodbye to Leon and Carol  and Bill.  We anticipate the arrival of David, a crew leader from south TX, and cooks Emily and Rita. 

For Perry, FL MDS—Edith, Herb, Tim, Adam, Lucinda, Carol, Leon, and Bill