Four families in Thorold will be moving into their new homes just in time for Christmas thanks to a very generous gift. Centennial Homes and its sub-trades will be donating a four-unit townhome to Habitat for Humanity Niagara.
The gift was announced during a special groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday morning at Mary Street in Thorold South.
Mark Carl, chief executive officer (CEO) for Habitat for Humanity Niagara, served as the emcee and welcomed everyone to the event.
“This is a significant contribution to Habitat Niagara and the community as a whole, because this generous gift allows Habitat Niagara to build more affordable housing to help Niagara families,” said Carl. “By building these four townhomes, Centennial Homes and their team of sub-trades will make a positive impact on the lives of local families who will soon call these homes their own.”
Established locally in 1993, Habitat for Humanity Niagara has constructed 73 homes in Niagara, serving 79 families and creating stable and secure housing for more than 272 children.
When the four units are complete, it will mean nine more families have homes because of Habitat for Humanity Niagara.
Carl said the idea behind the project was suggested by Dominic DiLalla, president of Centennial Homes, who, along with his staff and subcontractors, wanted to give back to Niagara.
Carl Ryan, board chair for Habitat for Humanity Niagara, said usually they are doing dedications and ceremonies for only one home, so to be doing so for four at a time was “exciting.”
“This is a day of transformation for everyone, as it is the largest Habitat for Humanity Niagara build in Thorold," he said.
Julia Deans, president and CEO for Habitat for Humanity Canada, called the donation an “extraordinary and innovative gift.”
Antony Candeloro, director of operations for Centennial Homes/Centennial Construction, spoke holding his son Sunny in his arms.
“On this transformative project, our partnership signifies a shared commitment to make meaningful differences in the lives of others,” said Candeloro. “We are honoured to play a role in this endeavour.”
Candeloro noted the project was going to begin soon and was planning to finish in time for Christmas.
“I feel that would make a pretty nice Christmas gift,” he joked.
Thorold Mayor Terry Ugulini said Habitat for Humanity Niagara has “transformed lives across Niagara and the city of Thorold.”
“The city has seen this firsthand and reaped the benefits of all this outstanding work,” he said.
Melissa and her son will be one of the families moving into the Habitat for Humanity home.
“Without this opportunity, we probably wouldn't be homeowners,” said Dennis. “From the bottom of our hearts we are so thankful.”
Margarita came from Colombia with her children. She said it was her dream to buy a home and offer her children peace and stability.
“You are not just building a house," she said. "You are building a new home. You are building the future. One million thanks is not enough to express how I feel."
