Home renovations are a necessary part of house ownership for many people, but they are often expensive, intrusive, and time consuming. For many homeowners, obtaining the renovations they desperately need seems out of reach, even though their quality of life may decrease without the renovations.
Fortunately, many home remodeling companies try to give back to their communities by donating time, supplies, and labor to families in need. One such company is T ‘N G Plumbing, of Austin, Texas. Each year, T ‘N G Plumbing holds a Pay It Forward contest and remodels the bathrooms of families in need. This year’s recipients, Gary and Marsha Wilde, were nominated by their daughter, Katie. Over the past several years, the Wildes have seen more than their share of tragedy, with two children committing suicide in the past, and losing a daughter-in-law to cancer in 2014.
When T ‘N G Plumbing stepped in to help, they found the Wildes’ bathroom in rough condition. The floor was in danger of collapse due to severe water damage, and was described as “spongey.” A staggering 36% of remodeling jobs are undertaken to repair property damage.
Partnering with other local companies such as Y Waste, Wagner Construction, Austin Electric, and many more, the T ‘N G team completely remodeled the bathroom. They then went above and beyond to replace the home’s plumbing, install a new water softener and furnace, and even paint some of the walls. In addition, they transformed the Wildes’ son’s bedroom into a play area for their grandchildren, re-framed family photos in the living room, and installed three memorial plaques beside the house for lost family members.
Other companies are able to help even more people through the power of television. Many shows exist that follow builders through various remodels for needy families, but a new show will be airing soon with a little extra celebrity flair. Called “I Pity the Tool,” the new show airing on the DIY Network will follow demolition worker-turned-actor Mr. T as he moves through Chicago helping families rebuild their homes.
“We’re hooking up homeowners who need help with their renovations,” Mr. T. stated in a press release. “I’m tired of all this jibber jabber—we’re out here getting things done, working hard, demolishing the old and rebuilding the new.”
The new show will air later this year.