“Dorchester really does care”

written by Janet Harrold
As arborists, gardeners, and florist, we know first hand the beauty of what can be unearthed once a seed has been sown. The constant efforts of Tony Paciulli and Carlos Vargas are being sewn all around Dorchester, sculpting/cultivating and beautifying the land in so many ways. Their latest project is something that we were very proud to be a part of. “Dorchester Cares” (sponsored by Vargas and Vargas Insurance co. and Meetinghouse Bank).  Their idea to select a home that  is owner occupied by an elderly or disabled resident(s) who is struggling with upkeep became a reality. On Saturday October 27th they gathered  the many volunteers, and the generous sponsors and  donors and dove right into helping them make some minor repairs to the obviously neglected 80 year old  house at 36 Saranac St.  The two story house is occupied by a widow who is partially wheelchair dependent and it is a struggle to maintain even basic needs around the house whether for financial or physical reasons. The repairs included scraping and painting the front porch, replacing buckled boards, power washing the back porch, manicuring the hedges, weeding as well as removing branches from utility wires.

The outpouring of support was incredible! Over 30 volunteers came, worked hard, broke a sweat and had a smile on their face the entire time. The feeling of helping a neighbor in need is both rewarding and satisfying. Just as the seed was planted this fall. The hope is that next year two houses will be chosen. For now we will just marvel in the fruits of our labor and watch this project grow like a beautiful wildflower.

As you can see many hands make for light work, they can also make a difference in a persons life. Special thanks for all who came out that day to help and their generous gifts of time and product.