habitat builder
a publication of San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity
October 2008
www.sgvhabitat.org
Monrovia groundbreaking marks start of new lives for 4 more families
Spirits and emotions were high on September 13th when SGV Habitat for Humanity broke ground at 1214-18 Sherman Avenue in Monrovia. This newest development will construct four simple, decent, affordable homes for low-income families. The Del Grosso, Quiroz, Naccarati and Nava families were selected through a rigorous application process, and are required to help build the homes. Habitat home buyers must be U. S. citizens or permanent legal residents, live in substandard or overcrowded rental housing, meet low-income eligibility requirements, have a steady income, and are required to pay a 1% cash down payment.
Tom Doud, president of the SGV chapter, said pre-development plans for the Monrovia build have been the easiest ever. The current Sherman Avenue location arose from interest from Monrovia Councilwoman Mary Ann Lutz, who was part of the Kenwood (Glendale) Women’s Build team for SGV Habitat for Humanity. Her city made not one, but two adjacent lots available to Habitat for Humanity so four affordable homes could be built. Monrovia has been extremely supportive and welcoming, from Scott Ochoa, city manager, to the Redevelopment Agency, elected officials, and the Sherman Avenue neighbors. In 1992, the first Pasadena home was built under very different circumstances. “We scrapped for everything,” Doud mused, with resistance at every turn. Since then, Habitat proved that these projects quickly have a positive ripple effect in the community. Fresh paint and home improvements on the block will soon blossom as the rafters of the Sherman homes rise. Janelle Williams, Family Selection Committee co-chair, spoke of the grueling process of selection, chuckling that the Del Grossos have become known for their application of humor to the direst of circumstances. Each family shared a bit of their background, challenges and commitment, with nary a dry eye in the audience. Some, like the Naccaratis, had applied time after time. After three heartbreaking rejections, Sandra Naccarati submitted the Monrovia application because Marco was out of the country. The Navas commented that they quickly realized life is not easy here when you are not well educated, so focused on their children’s education.
SGV Habitat Board member Don Goodman joins the Quiroz Family as they break ground for their new home.
The Quiroz family has a pastor as head of their seven member family. Williams quipped, “If you need a blessing, Raymond is your man!” Quiroz had so much faith in their selection, he circled September 13 on the calendar, noting “Groundbreaking for our home.” All are grateful to build a more secure life for their families, and look forward to giving back to their new community. Expected completion of the Sherman Avenue homes is December, 2009, though the families hope and pray for an earlier completion. In addition to raising the last $183,000 of the $533,000 cash budget needed to complete the homes, volunteer crew leaders are particularly needed. They must be skilled in various trades and able to teach general construction techniques to less experienced volunteers. Sonja Yates, Habitat Executive Director, asked volunteers from all walks of life to help construct the homes. “At the end of the day, our volunteers are VERY tired, but the reward is priceless. Volunteering may be a life changing experience.” To volunteer, contribute financially or donate materials or services, visit www.sgvhabitat.org, or call 626-792-3838. Note: This article is reprinted in part with permission from the Mountain Views Observer and has been edited for this newsletter.
Inside: From the Executive Director • Youth Group Car Wash • We’re Moving