Keith Bynum and Evan Thomas, the dynamic duo behind HGTV’s “Bargain Block,” have teamed up with local nonprofits to spearhead a fundraising initiative aimed at replacing roofs in a Detroit neighborhood. Their goal is to raise $100,000 through their campaign, aptly named “Roof The Block,” which will fund the installation of 10 new roofs in the Fitzgerald area of Detroit.
In an Instagram video, Bynum highlighted the importance of this project for long-time residents who desperately need roof repairs to continue living comfortably in their homes. The initiative is part of a broader effort by Bynum and Thomas to revitalize neglected properties across Detroit, transforming them into affordable starter homes that uplift entire neighborhoods. The upcoming fourth season of “Bargain Block” will focus on these efforts within the Fitzgerald community on Detroit’s west side.
The campaign underscores how crucial roof repairs are for preventing water damage that can make homes uninhabitable—a point emphasized on its GoFundMe page. To bring this vision to life, Bynum and Thomas have partnered with Brilliant Detroit and the Relentless Care Foundation—the charitable arm of Community Financial Credit Union—through their design firm Nine Design + Homes.
Cindy Eggleton, CEO and co-founder of Brilliant Detroit, expressed her excitement about collaborating with Bynum and Thomas on this meaningful project. She praised their dedication to helping long-term residents stay in their homes while also improving community welfare. Eggleton noted that initiatives like these reflect not just a commitment but also genuine love for the community they serve.
“It’s heartwarming to be part of something that honors those who’ve shown unwavering pride in our city,” Eggleton said on Monday. “This fundraiser is more than just about roofs; it’s about recognizing and supporting people who’ve been pillars in our neighborhoods.”
The Relentless Care Foundation has already committed funds for five initial roof replacements under Executive Director Matt Nahan’s leadership. Nahan stressed how critical home repairs are amid today’s housing affordability crisis—not only do they ensure housing stability but also help preserve generational wealth within families.
“As housing costs soar, maintaining one’s home becomes essential not just for immediate stability but as an investment passed down through generations,” Nahan remarked.
Since relocating from Colorado to Michigan in 2017 after meeting there years earlier, Bynum and Thomas have renovated over 50 homes alongside real estate agent Shea Hicks Whitfield—work documented extensively both online and through their television show. Their journey even includes turning one such property into their own residence before expanding further into other projects around town.
Launched via social media platforms early Monday morning at www.gofundme.com/f/rooftheblock—the fundraiser quickly gained momentum by raising over $5k within hours—a promising start toward achieving its ambitious goal!