By Joyce Kryszak
Buffalo, NY – WBFO told you recently about Buffalo ReUse, the group that is changing how the city approaches the demolition of abandoned houses. The not-for-profit group takes them down and then recycles them. Now, Buffalo ReUse is hoping to recycle hope in the city by making some vacant houses beacons of peace, with the Neighborhood Peace Mural Project.
In February, teenagers from the city and suburbs will work with teachers and other volunteers to turn plywood into canvases of peace. They will paint bright, inspiring murals on the board-up materials used to secure vacant homes throughout the city. The collaboration with the Buffalo Schools hopes to transform eyesores into invitations to new owners.
Michael Gainer is Executive Director for Buffalo ReUse. Standing in front of a once grand Victorian on East Utica, Gainer explains why it's worth saving.
Another not-for-profit group has already stepped forward looking to claim the rundown house, which is one of those already adorned in some of the colorful murals. Rod McCallum is director for Queen City Farms. The group wants to convert the block into an urban agricultural project to help sustain the struggling neighborhood. McCallum said the house is the perfect home for their community outreach.
Gainer and McCallum say that is the kind of positive neighborhood growth that the mural project hopes to inspire. Local stores and organizations are being asked to supply the materials. More teen volunteer groups are also still needed to "adopt houses" and paint murals next month. The deadline to sign up is January 31.
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