Applications for free house-painting are now available for low-income seniors and low-income people with disabilities throughout Tacoma and Pierce County. Volunteers from Paint Tacoma-Pierce Beautiful, sponsored by Associated Ministries, do all the work. There is absolutely no cost to the homeowner, since the painters are volunteers, and the paint is purchased with donated funds. Volunteers paint only the exterior of the house.
The deadline for applications is April 15. To be eligible, applicants must: (1) be a senior (60+) OR have a disability AND be receiving disability income, (2) own their own home in Tacoma/Pierce County, and (3) be low-income. People may apply for themselves or request an application in order to help someone fill it out.
Since the program began in 1985, volunteers have painted 1,740 homes. Last summer, more than 1,700 people volunteered with this effort and painted 86 homes. Homeowners are thrilled. Darcea Schiesl said, “I know there are nice people in the world, but I never imagined that anyone would paint my house for free! There’s this inner spirit that’s just so precious. You’re by yourself and don’t get things done that you should do. If I hadn’t given my hat away, I’d take it off to them. I’ve met a lot of nice people, but these guys go to the top.”
For applications and for further information call (253) 383-3056, ext. 106 or visit http://www.paintbeautiful.org .