Are you a senior? Sault College trades students can help get your house ready for winter

The annual Trades Day of Caring is coming up in October.

The initiative, which is put together by Sault College and United Way Sault Ste. Marie and Algoma District, connects Sault College trades students with local seniors who are in need of assistance helping with winterizing tasks ahead of the cold weather.

Registration and assessment of local seniors who are interested in taking part in the program is handled by the United Way and applications are due by Oct. 18. 

Seniors will be selected on need and on a first-come, first-serve basis. 

Students will perform a number of tasks on Oct. 26, including window caulking, weather stripping, sealing and outdoor preparations like raking leaves and shutting off outdoor faucets.

People interested in applying can contact the United Way at 705-256-7476, extension 0.

“This is a meaningful way for our trades students to put their skills to practical use while making a tangible impact in the community,” said Marc Pilon, a professor and coordinator of civil engineering and construction at Sault College. “We’re thrilled to offer students this opportunity to extend their learning beyond the classroom, while assisting seniors with home maintenance tasks to ensure they are prepared for the winter ahead.”

"By working together with Sault College, we’re able to offer invaluable support to seniors in our community,” said Rayna Evoy, fundraising manager at United Way. “Not only does this event offer hands-on learning opportunities for students, but it also helps improve the safety and well-being of some of our most vulnerable citizens, ensuring they are well-prepared for the upcoming winter.”

A year ago, 39 students from the construction techniques, civil engineering and construction project management programs volunteered their time to help prepare more than 30 homes for winter. Organizers are hoping for even greater participation this year, aiming to reach more homes and seniors in need.