“Life changing” day
“Life changing” day for two London families – Despite the chilly, drizzly weather on March 28, we had a record breaking attendance gathered outside 28 and 30 Forbes Street for the Key Ceremony celebrating Habitat for Humanity Heartland Ontario’s newest homeowners, Jodey and Brianne. Excited attendees filled the two spotless homes. Many could be overheard admiring their handiwork and reflecting fondly on their time at the site, and a full list of sponsors was on display for photo opportunities.
“The all-women team we sponsored really enjoyed it and can’t wait to do another,” noted Chuck Archer, VP Strategy and Communications at Voyago. “What a great way to give back to the community.”
After some heartwarming words of congratulations from FM96’s Chris “Taz” George and Jim Kelly, Habitat CEO Brian Elliot, Christine Quinlan of General Dynamics, and MPs Kate Young and Irene Mathyssen, among others who sponsored or worked on the site, Jodey and Brianne officially received the keys to their brand new bungalows.
Both women described the event as “life changing.” For Brianne and her son Brayden, their 800-square-foot bungalow with special accessibility features means that Brayden can live at home safely and comfortably, and remain in Brianne’s care for as long as possible. For Jodey, her Habitat home is a place to build equity in a way that she never thought possible as a single mom to her son Adalton.
“It’s discouraging when you may not meet the criteria for a traditional mortgage with a bank,” said Jodey. “So to be standing here in our own home is just surreal.”
Fellow Forbes Street resident Aked attended to congratulate his new neighbours, and had high praise for Habitat based on his own application experience two years ago:
“Everyone was so helpful and the skills I learned while helping to build my own home are skills I still use all the time as a home owner. Living here has been great.”
With the housing market showing no signs of cooling, it’s clear that Habitat’s unique offering is more needed than ever. Habitat will be breaking ground on two more homes on Forbes Street May 9th, 2019. If you’d like to get involved in those builds, or any other aspect of Habitat for Humanity Heartland Ontario, please visit our website www.habitat4home.ca
Submitted by Catie, Habitat Volunteer
