MIDDLEBURY — Habitat for Humanity of Addison County celebrated the completion of its eighth home at a dedication ceremony on Saturday, Feb. 13. The cold weather was no match for the warmth inside as new homeowner Karen Holbrook, together with her three children, thanked all those who worked so hard to help her reach this goal. Attending the event were many friends and family members, as well as Habitat volunteer builders and board members.
After explaining that Holbrook, together with her family and friends, had performed over 350 hours of “sweat equity” working on their home and reviewing the other requirements of Habitat homeownership, board President Joe Smith handed the family the key to their new home. The Rev. David Andrews provided a blessing and presented the family with a Bible.
Holbrook said, “My family is very grateful and fortunate to have this opportunity and we are so excited about moving into our Habitat home in Middlebury. We look forward to living in a clean, safe and spacious new home and being part of a wonderful community.”
Through donations of money, materials and volunteer labor, HfHAC was able to build this home and sell it at an affordable price. HfHAC was fortunate to have received two very generous donations on this project. Connor Homes donated and constructed the framing, roof, siding and windows, and Middle Road Ventures, LLC, provided a building lot at a substantial discount. The home was purchased with a no-profit loan, and the monthly payments will be used to build more Habitat houses in Addison County.
Board President Joe Smith said, “Our mission is to provide decent, affordable housing. By doing so, Habitat breaks the cycle of poverty and builds long-term financial security. Habitat’s low-cost, no-interest house payments free up money for food, childcare, medicine and other necessities. Research has shown that decent housing improves health, increases children’s educational achievement and strengthens community ties.”