Westside Habitat Coalition works to help those in need

Scott Boyce realizes the irony in his work as fundraising chair of the Westside Habitat Coalition. Nine local Christian churches have pledged to raise $35,000 to refurbish a home on Arbutus Street in downtown Rochester. The long-time contractor, and member of the United Methodist Church of North Chili, recently found himself on the verge of homelessness.

"Life can be hard," said Boyce. "We travel uphill and we travel downhill."

February 11 is a day Boyce does not recollect, but he knows it undoubtedly changed his life. From what others have told him, he was driving his new truck down a nearby street when he hit black ice and the vehicle began flipping.

Seventeen days and four surgeries later, he emerged from the hospital with massive damage to his left leg, including a crushed artery, and other injuries that almost forced doctors to amputate his foot. Boyce is badly scarred and still months away from being able to return to any work, and because of his status as an independent contractor, the financial hit he took has been too much to handle. Boyce now lives with his mother and is sure he won't return to roofing.

He also knows he is lucky to be here to talk about it.

"I learned in church that we may not always hear the answer to our prayers, but God gives us signs," said Boyce. "I believe this was God wanting me to slow down and re-evaluate my life."

During this time, Boyce has taken the opportunity to visit other church members in the hospital, reflect on his life and plan next steps for the Westside Coalition.

Several churches in Ogden, Greece, Chili, Gates, Riga and Scottsville have raised $26,000 of their $35,000 goal. Fundraising efforts have included a Mother's Day rose sale, a pin sale, a scarf sale, a clothing drive and an upcoming bowl-a-thon. The Coalition will also operate a concession stand at the Farmer's Market in North Chili.

Now they are turning to the broader community for help. Local residents can donate to the Westside Habitat Coalition project by calling Flower City Habitat (the Rochester chapter of Habitat for Humanity) at 546-1470 and designating a gift to the Westside Coalition. In addition to financial contributions, gifts of building materials may also be made. Visit the web site at www.rochesterhabitat.org for a list of needed materials.

Who benefits

Flower City Habitat for Humanity chooses homeowners based on their level of need, their willingness to become partners in the program, and their ability to repay the no-interest loan.

Families with incomes lower than 60 percent of the median income for Greater Rochester are eligible to apply to the Habitat program (for example, a family of four with an income of no more than $32,950). Families must be willing to live in the city of Rochester in neighborhoods that are undergoing revitalization. Homeowners are pioneers who are committed to working together to improve the safety and livability of their communities. This partnership includes providing 500 hours of "sweat equity," which is help building other Habitat homes.

Help when it is needed

Boyce recognizes the need for help now and then. The members of his church have been there for him during low times. He looks forward to the chance to help others.

"I didn't even hesitate when the opportunity to help with this project presented itself," Boyce said. "It is so heart warming when you do something for someone else."