Backyard Mission team tackles overgrown yard
By Pam Wright
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Many hands make light work.
That was the motto of a group of 30 volunteers who recently gathered to spruce up a Park Street home on Chatham’s east side.
The effort was the focus of this year’s Backyard Mission Project. It is a joint collaboration between the First Christian Reformed Church of Chatham and the First Presbyterian Church of Chatham.
It’s the 12th year the initiative has assisted in helping a homeowner in need.
The day-long Aug 9 project saw an all-ages crew power wash the one-storey house, cut back a brush-filled yard, and repair three entryways into the home to make it safe for owner Jim. Multi Construction was also on site lending a hand.
Rev. Nate Van Denend of the Christian Reformed Church, was among those who got busy and rolled up their sleeves.
“For some people, this is how they express their faith,” the pastor said.
Volunteer Margaret Ellis, who was in charge of landscaping, said helping others is what people of faith are supposed to do.
“You’re not doing it for them, you’re doing it for the Lord,” Ellis said. “It’s your obligation.”
Next year, volunteers plan on keeping up with the tradition. In order to qualify for the Backyard Mission, a family or individual must own the home and have insurance on the residence.
Local businesses have also been instrumental by making donations to the mission effort.
