Habitat for Humanity dedicates two Seaford homes

“For 22 years, Sussex County Habitat has been putting God’s love into action by bringing people together to build homes, communities and hope,” said Tom Protack, community engagement director for Sussex County Habitat for Humanity, as the Home Dedication Ceremony began for two new Habitat families in the greater Seaford area along King Road.

It was only 113 days ago that supporters, donors, volunteers and future Habitat homeowners gathered to break ground. Two families will now begin raising their children in simple, decent and affordable houses that are the result of many hands volunteering, donating and supporting the mission of Sussex County Habitat for Humanity. During the project, more than 14 college and school groups volunteered as part of Habitat’s Collegiate Challenge Program.

Participating in the dedication ceremony were members of the Ward family, who donated the two large wooded lots to Habitat. During the dedication ceremony, each family receives a ceremonial golden key, a house prayer plaque, a Bible and a housewarming gift from Habitat’s ReStore. They also have the opportunity to offer their own personal reflections.

Michael Remus said, “My wife Julia and I are so grateful to God and everyone from Habitat for giving us this wonderful opportunity to build better lives for our children.” A tearful Esther Garrido said, “Working alongside so many great volunteers has been a great gift; Habitat has given my family a bright future of hope and possibilities!”

Each adult in the Habitat partner families contributes 250 hours of sweat equity building and volunteering on Habitat projects in addition to attending monthly partner family classes that help teach them about homeownership.

Kevin Gilmore, executive director for SCHFH, encouraged each family to be good neighbors, strong contributors to the local community and to remain committed to their responsibility of Habitat homeownership by faithfully paying their monthly mortgage so Habitat can continue to build more homes and change more lives.

Habitat named the new street Hope Lane, and Gilmore challenged the new homeowners, “When you see that sign Hope Lane, never forget the great gift and opportunity you have been given.” As part of the program, Habitat holds a 30-year not-for-profit mortgage and often homeowners personally bring in their monthly mortgage payments to the Georgetown Habitat office.

The home dedication concluded with Habitat’s tradition of laying on of hands upon the new houses and praying that God’s blessings come upon the families and homes.

For more information about how to volunteer, support or donate to Sussex County Habitat for Humanity, call 302-855-1153, go to www.sussexcountyhabitat.org or follow on Facebook.