On June 21, Ty and his team traveled to Suffield, Connecticut with special reason to whistle while they work – as “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” in seven days rebuilds the small, fire-damaged and deteriorating home of the musical Hill family who give the gifts of song and inspiration to their community.
Known to local admirers as the “family choir,” the 13 Hill family members – William and Catherine along with their sons, daughters, nieces and nephews — have motivated friends and neighbors with their musical talents, academic achievements and selfless generosity. Cramped living conditions and sorely needed electrical, plumbing, roof and other home repairs have continued to take a backseat to helping those in need and providing a good education for the children. Five of the Hill siblings and cousins living at home are college students, and the family also scrimps and saves to provide medical treatment and care in their home for cousin Shamia, who received a kidney transplant from daughter Sonia.
Growing up in the housing projects of Hartford, Connecticut, William and Catherine Hill both dreamed of a safe and happy home brimming with their passion for music and education. Hard work and persistence made their dream come true – until the nightmare of a fire in 1993 damaged their small ranch house well beyond what insurance money could repair. It is now up to “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” to rebuild the Hill family with the home they truly deserve.
While Ty and the designers, local builder Pecoy Signature Homes and hundreds of volunteers and workers are rebuilding their home, the Hill family will go on vacation to Walt Disney World.