By Natalie Broda nbroda@medianewsgroup.com

Grace Centers of Hope has completed its 52nd renovation of a blighted home in Pontiac, donating the house to five women who have overcome substance use disorders through its programs.

The faith-based nonprofit organization purchased the house at 57 Fairgrove St. two years ago for $30. Built in 1901, it’s located off Perry Street near downtown in the nonprofit’s “Little Grace Village,” where the other 51 homes sit on the surrounding streets.

The three-story home underwent a total renovation having been boarded up prior to its purchase since 2011. The $180,000 transformation included building out five separate bedrooms for the women, two full bathrooms and a completed basement.

Every year, the nonprofit dedicates renovated homes to graduates of its year-long substance use disorder recovery programs. They’ll stay enrolled in the center’s after-care program, navigating life and job skill courses with stable housing.

“Seeing our community thrive year after year is truly a blessing to our organization, the city of Pontiac and everyone who lives in the neighborhood,” Kent Clark, CEO of Grace Centers of Hope and Pastor of the Grace Gospel Fellowship, said. “It truly is an extended, faith-based family that supports each other, which is especially important right now. The women moving into 57 Fairgrove have faced much adversity in their lives, and Grace Centers is excited to offer them a new home and a new start to the next chapter in their lives.”

It was the largest home to be renovated by the nonprofit to date. Demolition efforts were completed in part by 10 volunteers from Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. Mary Castorri, a West Bloomfield resident and donor to the nonprofit, was also honored for her work in refurbishing the home during the dedication ceremony. A bronze plaque was mounted to the front of the home in her honor.