Gulfport Volunteers Rally to Help Homeowner

are a group of dedicated individuals who organize cleanups throughout the city. Most of the time, the landscaping facelifts occur along busyroads, the beach or an open public place. This Saturday, they will take on their biggest project yet.

Doug Hudson, one of the founders of the Gulfport Neighbors, was contacted by Community Service Officer Robert McLaughlin of the Gulfport Police Department. McLaughlin informed Hudson of the home’s less-than-favorable condition.

The Gulfport Neighbors were quick to respond. In a news release Hudson was quoted saying, “We are excited to do whatever we can to help a resident in need.” With a heavy work load at hand, the Gulfport Neigbors have already rounded up more than 60 volunteers for Saturday and the number just keeps growing.

Tasks for the group will include the removal of current fencing and replacing it with new/donated fencing from Beachway Park. Hauling away debris, raking and even the replacement of a kitchen ceiling are all on the to-do-list for Saturday’s effort.

Tim Coppola, owner of Coppola Tree Service of Gulfport ,will be donating his time and equipment for a much-needed tree-trimming session. Gulfport’s Safety Tire has donated a slew of goods and services as well.

Between the Gulfport Neighbors and the mass of volunteers and donations, the residence at 5200 8th Ave S will be a better, safer place after Saturday’s cleanup.

If you would like to get involved in this effort, contact the Gulfport Neighbors on Facebook or call Doug Hudson at (727)744-9248; or you can just show up at the residence on Saturday at 8 am. Bring any tools you might have- hammers, rakes, shovels, gloves, etc.