Builders Care reaches $500,000 mark with latest project

As Builders Care kicks off its next life-changing home makeover on June 9, the organization will reach a significant milestone - a half million dollars worth of home renovations. Over the past two years Builders Care, the nonprofit arm of the Lee Building Industry Association, has provided $500,000 in emergency construction services to elderly and disabled individuals throughout Lee County.

The latest Builders Care recipient is Claudia Barrett, a widow and former caretaker for mentally disabled adults. Barrett suffers from acute congestive heart disease and is no longer able to work due to the illness.

Builders Care, with the help of local builder Owen-Ames-Kimball Company, began $50,000 worth of repairs on Barrett's home on June 9. The project will include the installation of a new roof, new windows, new kitchen and a working air conditioning unit.

"We are so grateful to be able to still provide these wonderful services even in such tough times for the building industry," said Heidi Davis, Builders Care executive director. "This is a true testament to how our builders care for this community."

The project is expected to take 12 days to complete, with the new improved home being unveiled at noon on June 20.

Builders Care is the non-profit charitable arm of the Lee Building Industry Association. Its objective is to provide emergency repairs and construction services to elderly, disabled and economically disadvantaged people who are unable to obtain home repairs through traditional means. Builders Care enlists the volunteer services of Lee BIA members and leverages grants and donated materials to provide construction and remodeling services to qualified homeowners throughout Lee County. Builders Care is headquartered at the Lee BIA offices at 4210 Metro Parkway, Suite 100, Fort Myers FL33916. Donations can be made online at www. LeeBuildersCare.org or to the Builders Care general fund at any Colonial Bank. More information is available by calling (239) 938-0056.