An annual event by a volunteer group aims to bring some joy to local families Sunday by making repairs to homes in Chula Vista.
The Chula Vista Firefighter’s Foundation’s annual “Christmas in October” event will spruce up a local’s home between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. Sunday, making either minor fixes or larger improvements depending on the skill levels of those volunteering.
If more skilled work is needed, the foundation will hire professionals.
This year, volunteers will help a multigenerational household in west Chula Vista dealing with health challenges, the organization said. The foundation plans to complete yardwork and haul away trash.
“Christmas in October is a wonderful way for our community to come together in service to one of our neighbors,” said Fire Engineer Paramedic Clint Schepe, one of the event’s lead organizers.
“Our volunteers come from all walks of life, and we are so grateful for their helping hands and for the generous donations of our sponsors.”
Participants have done prep work for several days at the location to allow the volunteers to finish Sunday.
Families selected for the program must be low-income and live in the home that is being repaired. The foundation typically selects one to three homeowners each year to receive assistance.
“Repairs range from cleaning up yard waste, to painting, fence repair and installing smoke detectors,” a statement from the Chula Vista Firefighter’s Foundation reads.
The tradition was started by community leader Dr. Emerald Randolph, a founding member of Chula Vista’s Community Emergency Response Team, and former Chula Vista Councilmember Patty Davis, both of whom died in 2019.
More information on where to donate, how to volunteer, or how to apply for a home makeover can be found here.
City News Service contributed to this report.
