The Kuol Arop family received the keys to their new home yesterday at a dedication ceremony instead of traditional real estate closing. What makes this home special is that this home was built by 400+ volunteers from local Erie churches in 21 days. The Greater Erie Area Habitat for Humanity chose this project to celebrate their 20th anniversary in Erie, PA. In all 44 congregations sent workers, supplies, furnishings, monetary donations and food for the volunteers. Among the welcoming gifts from the Erie community were quilts, a framed embroidered sampler, a bible, children's toy box, child-size picnic table and tool box for Mr. Arop.
The Arop family of seven left Sudan for political reasons and came to Erie in 1999. The three younger children were born in the United States. Like all families chosen to receive home built by Habitat the Arop family participated in the building of their own home as well as the building of other Habitat homes in the area. Through my former church I have met and worked with several families from the the Sudan over the years. I have learned that they are a hard workers who are very grateful to be in the United States. Also, they have many tasty Sudanese dishes to share a pot luck supper.
- Video of construction of the House That Faith Built www.goerie.com/video
- Interviews with Montytwic Kuol Arop, Rev. Michael Watson, Tom NeCastro, & church volunteers www.goerie.com/audio
- Progress photos www.gorerie.comgallery/2009habitathouse
Finally, I need to brag about Tom NeCastro, president of Greater Erie Area Habitat for Humanity. Tom who has been involved with Habitat for many years was one of my top producer when I managed a large real estate company in Erie, PA.
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