Rebuild Upstate to focus on fixing the quality of life
April 28, 2015
GREENVILLE, SC – Rebuild Upstate believes that safe, livable housing is an essential component in our community that leads to a higher quality of life, increased focus on education and employment and improved access to healthcare.
Unfortunately, this type of living situation is not a reality for all Upstate residents, but it is a goal that Rebuild Upstate aims to change.
Formerly known as ReWiGo Ministries, Rebuild Upstate announced its brand change and identity change Tuesday to better convey what this 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization actually does, said Chris Manley, the group’s founder and executive director.
“Rebuild Upstate helps low-income homeowners with home repairs and accessibility improvements to create safe, livable housing in existing homes and neighborhoods,” Manley said. “Typically our homeowners fall into one of three segments: low-income families with children in the home, seniors age 60 and older, and people with disabilities.”
Rebuild Upstate specializes in home repairs and accessibility improvements.
Home repairs can range from small plumbing fixes to roof and floor replacements, he said. Accessibility improvements range from installing grab bars and railings for vulnerable populations to building wheel chair ramps for those with disabilities.
Rebuild Upstate projects are completed by volunteers, ranging from beginner to more experienced skill levels. Costs are limited to the actual price of materials and the overhead it takes us to operate, supervise, insure, and manage our projects. Some small repairs, such as minor plumbing or small railings, can be as inexpensive as $50, Manley said. Others, including large ramps, replacing a roof, or flooring an entire home can be upwards of several thousand dollars.
Rebuild Upstate has a diverse funding model comprised of individuals, corporations, foundations, local churches, and small businesses that support the organization. Additionally, they partner with local governmental agencies to secure funding to serve specific populations of residents.
Nearly one hundred nonprofit agencies, governmental programs, churches, and other programs refer homes to Rebuild Upstate. Additionally, individuals contact them directly seeking assistance. In 2014, Rebuild Upstate received nearly 1,500 requests for assistance in Anderson, Greenville, Oconee, and Pickens counties.
“There is a huge need in the Upstate for what we are doing,” Manley said.
About Rebuild Upstate
Rebuild Upstate is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving Upstate South Carolina low-income homeowners with home repairs and accessibility improvements to create safe, livable housing in existing homes and neighborhoods. Learn more at www.rebuildupstate.org.
