Habitat For Humanity Sarnia-Lambton celebrated completion of its first two link homes Monday morning.
Habitat representatives, local dignitaries and volunteers gathered to hand over the keys to recipient families of 772 and 774 Devine St. in Sarnia.
The Tshangala family, who emigrated to Canada from the Democratic Republic of the Congo three years ago, are the new owners of one home built with assistance from volunteers in receipt of Ontario Works.
"It started with a phone call from a church friend who used to be a volunteer at habitat," says Gabriel Tshangala. "Our friend told us that we should apply. I was confused. We always hear on the radio about Habitat for Humanity Sarnia-Lambton, but never paid attention because we were thinking that it was for other people, not for us. My wife and I attended an open house after doing tons of research. We applied and by the grace of the lord we got approved."
Gabriel, his wife, three young sons and baby daughter had moving trucks parked nearby with plans to move in immediately.
The second home was Habitat’s second WomenBuild project and will support Ryan Hastings and Adam Hutchinson, two young men with developmental challenges.
"We started in April and here we are in October, two beautiful houses completed and three more families to add to our habitat partner family roster," says Habitat Executive Director Sarah Reaume.
Each home features three bedrooms, a full bathroom, an open concept kitchen and main floor dining and living rooms with a partially finished basement.
