With monthly build days, the Presbyterian Coalition was instrumental in building and dedicating homes to three hardworking families on Saturday, December 7, 2019.
The first Habitat home built in the Richman neighborhood was back in 2007. Since then, 14 more homes (not counting our 12-home development project) have been added to the neighborhood, making Richman a large Habitat community. True to our word, Habitat not only builds homes but community as well.
Reverend Lynn Stone of Yorba Linda Presbyterian Church presented the Flores family with their key on behalf of the Presbyterian Coalition.
After working hard to complete their sweat equity this past year, our families were buzzing with excitement at finally being able to move into their new homes. Unfortunately, one of our four homes remains vacant.
One of our applicants was laid off in the weeks prior to Dedication Day and was, unfortunately, unable to purchase the home at this time. Habitat OC CEO Sharon Ellis reassured everyone that the family is not forgotten; Habitat OC is working with the family to get them back on track, as is the Habitat way.
The Flores family could relate and sympathize with the missing family.
"This year, [we] went through many struggles," the Flores family said. "Habitat was always willing to work with us through the obstacles we faced."
"Everyone's been super nice. I can't believe they did everything without even knowing us." - Flores Family
The knowledge that they were building their dream home lightened whatever load they may have physically carried at the construction site. After a year anxiously awaiting the completion of their homes, our families were finally ready to move in. But the surprises were far from over.
"It's incredible to me, how many people, what a village it takes to make this kind of thing happen," Neighborhood Builder and President of the Auto Club of Southern California John Boyle said. "We also thought helping you with mobility might be a very good thing to do today."
AAA generously donated a car to each of our families.
"We're very surprised," the Flores family said, "This wasn't in the cards. When the garage opened, it was incredible. Everyone's been super nice. I can't believe they did everything without even knowing us."
Phase II of the Richman project is set to begin on Saturday, January 11, 2020.
Hi Nancy! Let us know when you are settled in. We will love to have you join our Orange County affiliate!
I am a volunteer in Phoenix AZ and will be moving to Huntington Beach in the near future. Would love to become active in OC.