BY RUTH MAYO
Reporting Intern
ruth@gulfcoastmedia.com

Because of Repair Baldwin, a program with Ecumenical Ministries Inc. (EMI), Ray White, a local homeowner, now has a safe entry for his family to enter their home.

The ramp that was installed for White on June 15 marked the 800th completed project for Repair Baldwin and the 98th ramp constructed under the program. Repair Baldwin started in 2012, and since then over $1 million has been invested back into the program.

"Repair Baldwin was put in place to address the crisis of affordable housing in the county," said Sally Deane, executive director of EMI. "Our goal is to save homes."

The ramp for White's family was constructed by a volunteer group from Eastern Shore Presbyterian Church. The group, led by Rick Skinner, a member of the church, involved several young members of the congregation alongside the adults. While volunteer groups typically construct the ramps for homes, contractors are brought in for electrical, plumbing, roofing and other structural repairs.

Complete roof replacement was common among the 200 projects that Repair Baldwin completed in the past three years with 92 complete roof replacements since the program started. Deane mentioned how important a roof is to any structure.

"We've even replaced the roofs on mobile homes," Deane said. "We're trying to keep families housed so they can live in an environment they can afford."

Funding for EMI is received through grants, utility companies, churches, other organizations and their thrift store, Emmy's, found on 564 Fairhope Ave. Some funds are received back through the homeowners using a "promissory note tailored to their budget." Deane said they have been able to put $100,000 back into the program with this.

Deane said, "It also helps give the homeowners a sense of pride."

Donations are also used as funding for the program and can be found on the EMI website, www.baldwinemi.org/donate. Just note that the donation is for Repair Baldwin. Sellable donations for the thrift store, Emmy's, are also accepted and greatly appreciated by the program.

Volunteer groups for Repair Baldwin are organized by different church groups across Baldwin County. The community is encouraged to volunteer for the overall program, EMI, by following the links on their website or visiting their locations in Fairhope or Foley and requesting an application in person.

The EMI website states, "If you have a few hours a week and would like to become part of the EMI team we would love to talk with you."