Paintfest provides seniors with free paint jobs

Several seniors in the Pocatello area had their homes painted for free this week as part of the annual Portneuf Valley Paintfest.

Under the program, seniors who meet the age and financial requirements have the exterior of their homes painted by a team of volunteers from a number of local businesses.

Wednesday Local News 8 found volunteers from Farmer’s Insurance putting the finishing touches on a northwest Pocatello home.

“They’re just so appreciative. They haven’t seen their homes look this good in a really long time,” said volunteer Brittany Pence.

The homeowner, who identified herself only as Carolyn, said she’s watched the paint on her home crack and fade over the last 10 years.

She said she’s grateful that Farmer’s stepped up to the plate.

“It’s unbelievable,” said Carolyn. “I thank the Lord every night.”

Since Paintfest began in 1987, organizers said it has painted almost 600 homes.