During the recent Sedalia City Council meeting, the Sedalia Community Helping Hands organization presented a compelling case for support, highlighting its vital role in assisting low-income, elderly, and disabled homeowners with necessary repairs. The communications coordinator for Helping Hands expressed gratitude to the council for the opportunity to share their mission and the impact of their work in the community.

Helping Hands, established in November 2022, has grown from a small group of volunteers to a dedicated organization that operates every Saturday morning. The group focuses on addressing city code violations to help homeowners maintain their properties and avoid potential legal issues. Currently, they have over 20 homeowners on a waiting list for assistance, prioritizing those who have received citations from the city.

The organization has successfully completed projects for 53 homeowners in the past 14 months, tackling a range of repairs from yard cleanups to installing gutters. They collaborate with local partners, such as the Sedalia Pettis County United Way, to maximize their resources and volunteer efforts. Notably, they have received donations of building materials, which are crucial for their operations.

However, the rising costs of building materials and associated fees pose a challenge for Helping Hands. The coordinator requested that the city consider waiving permit fees, dumpster fees, and disposal costs for their projects. This support would enable the nonprofit to allocate more of its financial donations directly to the materials needed for homeowner repairs.

The council's consideration of this request could significantly enhance Helping Hands' ability to serve the community, ensuring that vulnerable residents can remain in their homes and maintain safe living conditions. As the organization continues to grow, its partnership with the city will be essential in addressing the pressing needs of Sedalia's homeowners.