Local builders join Sussex Habitat in nationwide building effort

Home Builders Blitz 2014 is a partnership between Habitat for Humanity and the building industry to build homes across the nation. Builders and Habitat affiliates work closely to organize all aspects of building, including securing subcontractors and suppliers, fundraising and seeking donations of materials. Builders participating in the program this year worked with more than 80 Habitat affiliates.

Locally, home builders partnered with Sussex County Habitat for Humanity to raise the walls, set and shingle the roofs and complete the exterior of two homes in Georgetown. Dave Lawson led the crew of professionals for the duration of the project while Master Builders Lessard Builders and Saez and Sons Roofing brought in teams of professional labor for the build.

“Many of Habitat’s most prolific supporters have come from the building community, whose members understand the importance of creating strong communities,” said Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity International. “We are incredibly grateful that so many home builders choose to give of their time, talent and resources to help build hope in the lives of families in need of decent shelter.”

The blitz took place over three 12-hour days of heat, rain and occasional heavy winds. Several local businesses and churches supported the teams of regular volunteers, professional builders, AmeriCorps and partner family members by supplying food and beverages throughout the week. Starbuck’s sent in a crew early on day one to serve coffee, and the donations kept coming. Arena’s Deli, Donut Connection, Conley’s United Methodist Church, St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, Georgetown’s Pizza Palace, Caruso’s and Patty’s all sent meals.

“This event means the world to us and the families we serve. In only three days, skilled professional volunteers were able to accomplish what would have taken two or three months of regularly building a few days a week. Two families will be able to move into their new houses sooner because of the help of everyone involved in making this event a success,” said Kevin Gilmore, SCHFH executive director.

Each Habitat partner family adult works 250 sweat equity hours as part of their partnership with Habitat for Humanity. The two houses in Georgetown Point will be the homes of Martiria Mendez Chavez and her family, and Jamie Bowden and her children. Both families are working hard to build their home and the homes of fellow Habitat partner families.

For more on the Home Builders Blitz or for information on how a company can help, contact Sussex County Habitat for Humanity at 302-855-1153 or email Kristin Bainger, Community Engagement director for SCHFH, at Kristin@sussexcountyhabitat.org.