Fixing it for Christ, a religious non-profit operating under the umbrella of Waxhaw United Methodist Church (UMC), just completed their annual work days on June 19 through the 22, 2019. During this time, Fixing It For Christ (FIFC) had over 600 volunteers from 15 different churches come together to improve our local community. Jim Howie, co-chair of FIIC, explains, “In 2006, 35 people from Waxhaw UMC went to Pascugala, MS to work on houses ravaged by Hurricane Katrina. I was a part of that group. The following year, we wanted to do another mission trip but saw so many needs locally that there was no reason to leave our community to help others.”
This year they were able to assist 28 families in the local area with home improvement projects. Projects can range from replacing leaky faucets and toilets to exterior renovations such as fixing and repairing roofing and siding. While there are many reasons that the community needs help including storm damage, infirmities, or monetary, these projects are completed quickly with the help of many hands and many hearts. “There are several companies that supply us with products, discounts, and finances.” Howie says. FIFC also has a running list of needed materials on their website from construction materials to food for the volunteers and many people and companies came together to gather the needed supplies.
The work days started at the Waxhaw UMC at 6:30 a.m. when registration began. Many people had pre-registered, but last minute volunteers were welcomed just the same and were assigned to projects as needed. After check-in, the FIFC cooks handed out a hot breakfast to fuel the day for the volunteers. Brown bag lunches were provided and everyone was invited back for a hot dinner after 5 p.m. In between the delicious meals, the group went to work cleaning up and restoring our town.
“We expanded our program in 2012 by inviting others to join with us. Each year additional churches join us. It has been reported to us that two SC churches have used our template to start their own programs! This year there were 15 other churches and organizations involved including: Mineral Springs UMC, 1st Baptist of Charlotte – Men’s Group, Spirit of Joy Lutheran, Amazing Grace Lutheran, All Saints Anglican, Faith Community, St Margaret’s Episcopal, Marvin AME Zion, Weddington UMC, Latter Day Saints-Waxhaw Ward, Our Lady of Grace Catholic, Waxhaw Baptist, Forest Hill, Five Stones and Operation Reachout. We had representatives from 8-10 more churches as well as businesses and unaffiliated people looking for a way to serve our community.” Howie summed it up with, “We are so grateful for all the passionate volunteers and donors who make this possible.”
More information is available at: www.fixingitforchrist.com
