Saugerties, New York. July 30th, 2024. Ulster County Habitat for Humanity dedicated its 23rd house in an emotional ceremony last night, with a crowd of over forty people. There were tears of joy as board member James Moore and CEO Christine Brady LaValle told the story of a “miracle,” a house built with the help of the community.
The home was built by volunteers, tradespeople, and generous support from Ulster Habitat donors. It is being sold at a subsidized cost to a single mother of two children.
Billed as life-changing, speakers told of how, years ago, the new homeowner didn’t have a driver’s license or own a car, and walked her children to school a mile through all weather. The struggle for a single mom was very real, but she continued to look for opportunities for her family. Now, in buying (and working on!) her own home, she will be able to set down roots and have a stable and safe home for her boys.
Brady LaValle and Moore both discussed the importance strangers play in this opportunity. Many donors and volunteers would never meet the new homeowner, but choose to help. This is the “miracle” of the community coming together. They continued, describing the homeownership crisis in the county requiring desperate action. Brady LaValle asked everyone to be an advocate for homeownership. Issues like housing and zoning are decided at often poorly attended public meetings, and public support is critical for the mission of Ulster Habitat.