Veterans, Active Duty Military Help Build Homes In Eastern PA

HATFIELD, PA — A special Veterans Day initiative brought together active military, former service members, and community volunteers in eastern Pennsylvania to help build homes for veterans in the community.

Working alongside Habitat for Humanity, the group helped to build four new homes around Cowpath Road in Hatfield in Montgomery County.

“In Pennsylvania alone, more than 100,000 veterans live in homes with one or more major problems of quality, crowding, or cost,” Rebecca L. Cain, the CEO of Habitat for Humanity Montgomery and Delaware Counties, said in a statement to Patch.

Organizers hope the event both raises awareness of homelessness while inspiring veterans and other community members.

"This event highlights our year-round efforts to serve veterans and their families through our Critical Home Repair program, affordable home buying opportunities, and volunteer activities," Cain added.

The Veterans Day event took place over the course of three days. The Air National Guard 111th Attack Wing joined in the build.

"As guardsmen, this is where we live," Air National Guard member Kristen Luciano told Habitat. "We live in these communities, we work in these communities and it's wonderful to give these folks opportunities to have safe living."

Habitat also thanked U.S. Congresswoman Madeleine Dean for supporting the project.

"I had the chance to tour their site in Hatfield that will soon become a home — a place of love and hope — for a family in need," Dean said. "Thank you to our veterans who exemplify service and to all those who gave their time and talents."

Habitat hopes to build two more homes in the same manner later this year in Delaware County. These homes will also be reserved for veterans.