In a heartwarming ceremony Tuesday afternoon, Habitat for Humanity of Berks County dedicated its second of eight planned new homes on Miltimore Street, marking a significant step in their mission to revitalize the Buttonwood Gateway community. The celebration showcased the organization’s commitment to providing affordable housing and fostering community growth.
The new home, located in the 400 block of Miltimore Street, stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts of Habitat Berks in transforming neighborhoods. Complementing past and present home rehabilitations on West Buttonwood Street, this initiative reflects the organization’s dedication to revitalizing communities and creating a positive impact on the lives of local residents.
Among the distinguished speakers at the event were Habitat Berks’ Executive Director, Timothy J. Daley, Reading Mayor Eddie Moran, a representative from the District Office of Senator Judy Schwank, City Councilwoman Donna Reed, and Habitat Berks’ Director of Family Services, Eneida Powell. Their remarks highlighted the collaborative spirit driving the organization’s success and the importance of community partnerships in achieving shared goals.
The program’s pinnacle was the presentation of gifts and the symbolic key to the home to Christina Tart and her family, the newest homeowners. Tart had the opportunity to address the gathered crowd, expressing gratitude and excitement for the new chapter in her family’s life.
“I was up-and-down with emotions because at first I was trying to go through realtors thinking I’m never gonna be a homeowner, then Habitat gave me a chance and the knowledge to put me in the right direction” said Tart. “I think that everybody needs that little guidance and I appreciate that they chose this community. I used to live around here back in the day and remember what it was like. I’m happy to be part of this new community”
Being a single mother, Tart says being a homeowner gives her stability and a sense of community. As part of the first-time homeowner program, she worked 200 hours of “sweat equity” with Habitat on the house, volunteered at the Habitat for Humanity of Berks County ReStore and completed 40 hours of financial education classes.
The dedication ceremony not only marked the completion of a new home but also symbolized the beginning of a brighter future for the homeowner and the entire Buttonwood Gateway community.
Looking ahead, Habitat for Humanity of Berks County outlined future plans for additional new homes in the Buttonwood Gateway area. The organization aims to acquire properties for future projects, further contributing to the positive transformation of the community.
As the celebration concluded, attendees left with a sense of shared accomplishment, knowing that each new home dedication brings positive change to the lives of local families.
