Wisconsin Fire Fighter Home Gets Extreme Makeover

September 29, 2009 – On the season première of ABC’s “Extreme Makeover Home Edition,” Superior, WI Local 74 fire fighter Howard Huber and his family get their dream home.

“The Huber family lived in a home with safety issues,” says Local 74 President Tom Lesage. “Thanks to the show, they now have a great home. Huber’s fellow fire fighters were part of the show, as well, to demonstrate how we serve and protect the community. We couldn’t be more thankful to the show.”

Before becoming a fire fighter four years ago, Huber lost his job. As a result, his family had to sell their home and move into a fixer-upper.

“I used my unemployment as an opportunity to change my life and to do what I’ve always wanted to do – become a fire fighter,” says Huber. “After realizing that dream, my family made repairs to the home as we had money, but there were still some big problems.”

Repairs included septic system problems, electrical wiring issues, a leaky roof and rotting siding.

Friends of the Huber family nominated them for “Extreme Home Makeover Home Edition.”

“What was so humbling about the whole process is that 1,400 people from our community donated building supplies and built our home,” recalls Huber. “I didn’t realize that the show only provides the filming. It does not provide labor or supplies.”

Huber adds, “The show did make a point to honor fire fighters and what they do for the community. Fire fighters are the last to brag about what they do, but still, the recognition was appreciated.”

To watch the episode, click here.