Christian Peterson
reporter@riverbendnews.org
John Evans, local African Baptist Church member, just moved to Suwannee County two years ago. He had served as a law enforcement officer in Del Ray Beach but had decided to retire. During his service in Del Ray, there was a program the city ran called “Rock the Block.” Law enforcement officers while on patrol would take note of houses in the community in need of repair and help, especially with elderly residents. Then the community would band together to help bring the house out of disrepair.
When Evans moved away after retirement, he brought the “Rock the Block” idea with him. He spoke about the idea to Alex Fountain the pastor of African Baptist Church and he was immediately interested in the idea along with the community. Everyone was interested in improving the quality of life for their neighbors and friends. However, it didn't end only on the local level. The group reached out to Representative Jason Shoaf who also immediately jumped on the idea. Suwannee County Sheriff's Office and many other civic organizations joined in and over the 2023 year, two different houses were repainted.
The first house was Era Morris' house. The community banded together one Sunday afternoon in February and repainted her house. Later in the year Paula Loper was also in need so the same groups banded together once again. High schoolers were also invited to repaint the house where they were able to receive community service hours for graduation requirements. Both Lowe's and Howland's donated paint for the projects so it came at no cost for the “Rock the Block” program. “It’s really good to see a community of people come together,” said John Evans. Both individuals reported being very happy with the results of the project. The community looks to 2024 with more plans to help others around the community.