- On April 5, 2014, Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County broke ground for their new “Cemetery Road Development” in Santa Paula where eight single family homes will be built in partnership with hard-working low-income families, volunteers, and members of the community. Before the buzzing of saws and pounding of hammers begins, words of thanksgiving and celebration were shared by all who attended this milestone event. The event began with introductions and opening remarks by County Supervisor Kathy Long and Chief of Staff/Santa Paula Councilman Martin Hernandez, followed by a groundbreaking and blessing ceremony.
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“We are grateful to have been given this opportunity to become homeowners and to be able to call Habitat our friends,” said Lili Chavez. “In the past year so much has changed like the birth of our baby girl Ariana, and Susie is so excited about being a big sister. She is also excited about not having to share a single bedroom with us. We can’t wait to move into our new home!”
- Construction of the first home is fully sponsored by St. Maximilian Kolbe Catholic Church in Westlake Village. To date,St. Maximilian “Habitat to the Max” members have raised over $800,000 to build simple decent homes in partnership with the community, volunteers, and Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County. The second home in this development will be funded in large part by a $100,000 grant from Thrivent Financial and a $25,000 commitment from California Lutheran University. A coalition of faith-based organizations will join together to fully fund construction of this home.
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“We are extremely grateful to St. Maximilian Kolbe Catholic Church, Thrivent Financial, and California Lutheran University for their support of Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County,” said Steve Dwyer, Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County Executive Director. “Because of this support, two more families will have a safe, affordable placeto call home.
- Habitat for Humanity expects construction of the first two homes to be completed by December of 2014. With additional funding secured, the remaining six homes will be built over the next two to three years in partnership with hundreds of passionate and committed volunteers.