Pope Francis Visit Helps Inspire Habitat for Humanity House Build in Yonkers

This story was updated to properly credit the photographer of the above image, ©maria r. bastone.

Pope Francis’ historic trip to Cuba and the United States this week helped to inspire Habitat for Humanity of Westchester’s plan to build a house in Yonkers at 124 High Street, according to officials.

“We are blessed to have the Pope visit New York,” said Jim Killoran, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Westchester, in a statement. “His mission to help those in poverty and his love of the environment is at the heart of Habitat for Humanity of Westchester’s mission; to help everyone live in a green neighborhood.”

Habitat is proud to announce our dedication to a leader who wants to end poverty in the world like Habitat does. Approximately 300 volunteers are building the house over a two-week period to celebrate the Pope Francis visit “in the theology of the hammer.”

The home is being built for the family of U.S. Army Sgt. Michael Velazquez, according to Habitat.

“We challenge everyone to pick up a hammer and build with us throughout the year!” said Killoran. An anonymous donor helped Habitat to secure the site, which is a formerly foreclosed house, in partnership with the City of Yonkers. Work began on Sept. 19.

Added Yonkers City Council President Liam McLaughlin, “Habitat for Humanity supports that common goal while bringing together volunteers from all walks of life who understand Pope Francis’ words that work confers dignity. I hope you’ll consider joining me on this worthy project.”

A few of the groups scheduled to help with the project include: Fordham University, Iona College, School of the Holy Child, Relig Youth Ministry, St. Josephs of Bronxville, Holy Family Parish, St. John & Paul of Larchmont, St. Augustine’s Church of Larchmont, and St. John’s the Baptist of Yonkers.

Thursday will be a Blessing ceremony and a call of action with 180 volunteers.

For more information contact Jim Killoran at (914) 403-4821 or by email at jim@habitatwc.org

Photo: Atop High Street in Yonkers sits the “Pope Francis House” that will soon be home to the family of U.S. Army Sgt. Michael Velazquez. Photo credit: ©maria r. bastone