More than 85 Tacoma Public Utilities employees and family members will spend the day Saturday building, repairing, painting, landscaping and cleaning so two low-income seniors can continue living independently in their homes.

In a partnership with Rebuilding Together South Sound, two Tacoma Public Utilities volunteer teams will take care of some desperately needed repairs at two houses on Tacoma’s East side. Most of the work will improve accessibility and safety for the homeowners, but employees also will lend some unique expertise. Improvements include installing efficient windows, insulation and faucet aerators, and fixing plumbing leaks. The goal is to leave a much safer, more efficient house that results in lower utility bills. By the end of the day, both homes will have more secure access, a new coat of interior paint and a cleaned up, water-wise landscape. Volunteers will ensure the owners’ safety by installing grab bars, securing railings and making minor electrical updates.

“Our relationship with Rebuilding Together South Sound is a perfect partnership for our employees. They get to use their unique skills and expertise to better our community,” said Bill Gaines, Tacoma Public Utilities director/CEO. “Our employees are committed to using their talent to support our most vulnerable customers.”

The volunteer crews will start work at both sites at 8:30 a.m. and will hopefully wrap things up before 5 p.m.