Habitat for Humanity dedicates home in West Rehoboth
Carmen Blackwell couldn’t be happier to move into a brand-new, three-bedroom home in the community where she was born and raised. But she is even more thrilled to provide a home for her 10-year-old daughter, Brooklyn.
“This is 100 percent for her to have a better living arrangement than what we’ve had,” Blackwell said. “She’s always wanted to know why we can’t have a house. Well, we can, thanks to Habitat and all the great people who are involved with it.”
The Sussex County chapter of Habitat for Humanity held a ceremony June 21 for the symbolic transfer of home ownership. Blackwell was handed a ceremonial key, a Bible, and gifts from volunteers and organizations involved with the project.
“I believe God is the only one who could make all these pieces come together, and his blessing brought us to where we are today,” said Kevin Gilmore, executive director of Habitat’s Sussex chapter. “Habitat puts God’s love into action by bringing people together to build homes, communities and hope. This house is an example of that coming together.”
Volunteers broke ground on the home in March and it was completed in three months, six weeks ahead of schedule. A total of 143 volunteers from Lewes, Rehoboth and other neighboring communities worked with Blackwell on the construction.
“I want everyone to know how important it is to get out and volunteer because you learn so much and meet some great people,” she said.
Blackwell was required to pour 200 hours of sweat equity into her future home as well as attend homeownership classes, eliminate any delinquent debt and save $2,500 for closing costs.
This was the 135th home Habitat has built and sold to a qualified homeowner in Sussex County. Homeowners have a low-interest and affordable 25-year mortgage that is made possible through partnerships.
“This model has worked in Sussex County for 27 years and around the world for 40-plus years,” Gilmore said. “It’s a model that helps people who are living in rough conditions and are willing to work hard to change their circumstances and get into decent, affordable housing.”
