Housatonic Habitat for Humanity Welcomes New Homeowner in Danbury

Housatonic Habitat for Humanity held a home dedication ceremony on October 24 for its newest homeowner, Fernando Franco. Fernando joins four other Habitat neighbors at Hospital Avenue in Danbury. Local officials, supporters, Habitat volunteers, and family and friends attended the event where Fernando expressed his gratitude for becoming a homeowner. “Years ago I had a choice to help support my family or to become a homeowner,” Fernando said. “I never thought I would be able to do both. I am so thankful to be able to realize this dream through Housatonic Habitat’s homeownership program.” Fernando emigrated to the United States from Ecuador more than 30 years ago. He pursued and achieved his Master’s Degree and his teaching certification and became a teacher of World Languages at Joel Barlow High School in Redding.

As part of the program, Fernando completed 250 hours of “sweat equity,” working as a volunteer in the Habitat ReStore and translating event flyers for the organization. He also attended financial education courses designed to help ensure his success as a new homeowner.

“Fernando is a quintessential Habitat homeowner” said Housatonic Habitat Executive Director Diana Arfine. “He has worked hard for everything he has, including his dream of homeownership. We are thrilled to celebrate this accomplishment with him.”

Housatonic Habitat for Humanity is dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of qualified working families by promoting financial stability and self-sufficiency through ownership of affordable homes. This year marks Housatonic Habitat for Humanity’s 30th anniversary of bringing people from all walks of life together to build and repair homes, communities and hope.

For more information, visit: www.housatonichabitat.org