Continuing an annual tradition, more than 120 volunteers from RDA and the University of Kansas Medical Center and University of Kansas Hospital participated in Rosedale's version of Christmas in October last month, helping disabled, elderly, and other low-income homeowners with improvements and upkeep to their homes so that they can continue to live in dignity and security.

This year, repairs were completed on eight different Rosedale homes. Flower bulbs were also planted in a grassy lot on the corner of Southwest Blvd. and Mission Rd., across from the old firestation.

The involvement of the KU Medical Center and KU Hospital is critical to the program's success every year. "The Rosedale Christmas in October project is an extremely fulfilling way to give back to the local community," said Don Rau, KUMC Director of Facilities. "[It] creates a great environment for both Hospital and University employees, as well as students, to help others, make new friendships and do what is right for those who need our help."

In addition to the KU Medical Center and KU Hospital, other Christmas in October partners included Strasser's Hardware and the Racing Association of Kansas (TRAK) East. Thank you to these organizations for their financial and material support.

Thank you to the house captains, as well, who conducted preparatory assessments, gathered equipment and supplies, and supervised volunteers.

Christmas in October provides materials and volunteers to make needed home repairs and upgrades in older, urban core neighborhoods. Typical tasks include painting, weeding, trimming bushes and shrubs, fixing porches and steps, and more. Homeowners are usually elderly, disabled, or otherwise low-income and not able to undertake the repairs on their own. Thus, the program helps maintain and improve the housing stock and property values in the community, while simultaneously serving people in need.

To qualify, residents must own their home and have their utilities turned on. In Rosedale, referrals for the program come from RDA staff, neighborhood groups, churches, U.G. codes officials, and the homeowners themselves. Representatives from RDA and the two KU entities evaluate each referral to determine eligibility.