Habitat for Humanity Holds Dedication Ceremony for Morris Avenue Homes

It was fitting that on the weekend celebrating Martin Luther King, Jr, almost 90 people braved the bitter cold to witness the dedication of six new housing units on .

As an advocate for economic justice, Dr. King knew that livable housing in which families could grow, provide education for their children, and garner respect in the community, was one of the keys to ending poverty and homelessness. On this day, Dr. King's vision was put into action.

Representatives from the City of Summit, the and 22 area congregations, along with, corporations, local businesses, donors, and volunteers, all watched as the new homeowners proudly showed off the homes where their families would grow.

Irena Bairova, whose ground floor unit will be home to her and two sons, summed it up by saying "Today my dream has come true!" Other first time homeowners include: Sheline Tate and children, Maria Stodolak and her mother, and Erlande Victor and children. Two units are currently unassigned.

Blair Schleicher Bravo, Executive Director - , pointed out that "while there are those who merely speculate on social change, there are those who choose to work for that change. These homes were built in that spirit.

It is the culmination of a truly collaborative process-a community of interested, caring people wanting to help those in need." She estimates that 4,400 volunteers contributed over 33,000 hours of their time and talent to build these homes.

Funding is another important component of any construction. For these homes, $760,000 was raised and there is still $30,000 needed to fully fund the project. Principle funders included the Division of Planning & Community Development - Bureau of Housing, Summit area congregations, Lena Willis Mission Fund, NY Life Foundation, Nicholas J. and Anna K. Bouras Foundation. In addition many professionals such as Planner, Bruce Katona; Architect, Seth Leeb; Surveyor, Rich Smith; Attorneys, Sean Monaghan and Scott Hovanyetz of Drinker Biddle, and Jim Mullen of the Pulte Group; Engineer, Fred Stewart, and Electrician, George Elston, all donated their services.

These units represent the 49th through 54th homes that has built since 1985! However, the need is great and has 35 building projects in the pipeline through 2015. Blair invited all to join Morris Habitat as they build more homes in partnership with the community, corporations, businesses, and local families in need. If you are interested in volunteering with Morris Habitat please visit  Morrishabitat.org, or contact Ellie Eppie, Director- Volunteer Services at 973-891-1934.