THUNDER BAY – Today is the first ever Habitat for Humanity Day in Thunder Bay. Unfortunately Mother Nature is stepping in to rain on the day. Amanda Bay reports, “Unfortunately our feature Habitat family cannot make it this morning. They are still going forward with their BBQ today- but have made it a drive-through bbq”.
Community members are being asked to raise their hands for the first ever Habitat for Humanity Thunder Bay Day that will take place on Monday, May 28th, 2012.
The day is being held to celebrate the contributions of the not-for-profit organization, its many volunteers, donors and local families.
Habitat for Humanity CEO, Diane Mitchell, says; “Over the last eighteen years, Habitat for Humanity Thunder Bay hands have built more than just houses in Thunder Bay; they have helped to build our community in many ways. Our Habitat for Humanity supports more than home ownership; it brings a renewed sense of pride and revitalization to local neighbourhoods, decreases dependency on social services, and helps parents to build better lives for their families. Watching our families grow and succeed in their new homes over the years, gives us a reason to celebrate on Habitat for Humanity Thunder Bay Day.”
There are many ways the community can raise their hands on Habitat for Humanity Day Thunder Bay. Companies, businesses and organizations can raise their hands by saying “yes” to the Hard Hat Challenge, youth can show their support by posting the event’s icon on their Facebook and Twitter, and everyone can raise their hand by collecting their pennies and bringing them to the Habitat for Humanity Thunder Bay Day Penny Drive & Charity BBQ, taking place at the Brick between 11am-3pm.
Since 1994, Habitat for Humanity has built 22 homes in Thunder Bay, giving 51 children homes of their own. Amber Dolan and her family moved into their Habitat home in 2009. Dolan says; “Four years ago I was living in a very crowded apartment facing one hardship after the other. Habitat has truly made my family’s dreams come true. I live in a clean, safe neighbourhood where my children are able to go outside and play and I feel such a great sense of community. I will never be able to express just how grateful I am to have a home of my own and most importantly to have such a great place to raise my family.”