Habitat for Humanity Blitz

CHESTER, Pa. - June 5, 2006 -- Chester is one busy place, and it will have to be if Habitat for Humanity is going to reach its goal of building homes for four families in just one week.

Dozens of professional construction workers and other volunteers are donating their time this week. Their goal is to build two twin houses in Chester to provide homes for four families. Leslie Brennan/volunteer: "There isn't anything better you can do." Chester is just one city reaping the benefits of a nationwide campaign by Habitat for Humanity called "Home Builders Blitz" week. More than 400 houses are set to be built nationwide.

Rhonda Fawra and her three daughters will be moving into one of the new houses. Rhonda Fawra/Habitat family: "I'm definitely blessed. I feel blessed every day. I thank God every day for this opportunity and that I can make opportunity for my children." In return for an interest-free mortgage to buy the house for the cost of the building materials, the families must work on the houses as well. They'll put in 200 hours of sweat equity.

Habitat's investment in Chester comes at a time when local officials are hoping for a renaissance here thanks to anticipated casino revenues. They say it's a great time for families to become homeowners in Chester. Andy Reilly/Delaware County Council: "The recent county service sale, we had many, many investors buying property because people see it turning around. Our goal is not only to turn it around, but to turn it around for the citizens of Chester, the people who live here now." Each of the homes will have 3 bedrooms and 1-1/2 baths and the families should be able to move in this summer.

(Copyright 2006 by 6abc and Action News. All rights reserved.)

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