By LEONARD GRAY-Staff Reporter

HAHNVILLE – A multi-agency, volunteer-based group called the safeHarbor Coalition is credited with 78 construction jobs to date, assisting senior citizens to make safety-based repairs to their homes.

The Coalition is operated by the St. Charles Council on Aging and United Way of St. Charles to assist low-income senior citizens with emergency and desperately-needed home repairs.

The outcome of this work is to allow these citizens to remain safely in their own home, in comfort and security.

“It’s been a very successful and a really rewarding program,” said Margaret Powe, executive director of St. Charles Council on Aging.

Born several years ago, it mostly concentrates on wheelchair access ramps, but the versatility of the volunteers have enabled them to overcome some real challenges.

“It’s a culture shock sometimes,” Powe said.

Manpower comes through volunteers from various industries, churches and organizations.

Volunteers provide the labor and skills, building team spirit within their own organization while helping a fellow citizen in need. Projects have included installation of access ramps, repairing rotted floors or ceilings, painting and general cleanup, electrical and plumbing work.

Funding of materials needed for each project comes through United Way of St. Charles.

“The response from the community has been great,” Powe added.

Any company, industry, church or organization wishing to get involved in these projects should call the safeHarbor Coalition coordinator, Joy Dupre, at St. Charles Council on Aging at 783-6683.