Posted Friday, September 25, 2020 2:28 pm
Vincente and Aurelia Rodriguez were showered with love and blessings, surrounded by family and friends, as they transitioned into homeownership at this week's Habitat for Humanity home dedication.
Addressing the crowd in attendance, Aurelia Rodriguez said, “We are so glad that our dream has become a reality. We will be thankful for the rest of our lives.
Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland dedicated the home in a ceremony at the Victory Cove subdivision site with Habitat and Community Foundation of Cleveland representatives on hand to congratulate the new homeowners.
The build was made possible by Community Foundation of Cleveland and Bradley County’s $75,000 Full-Home Sponsor donation.
Construction director Julio Cerpa lead a musical number with members of the crowd singing, clapping and playing a set of claves.
Vincente gave many thanks to Habitat, Community Foundation and each and every volunteer who donated time and talents.
“We believe it is essential for every family to have safe, affordable housing," noted Cathy Barrett, president of the Community Foundation. "We know that affordable housing is a major challenge for our community. The work that Habitat does is a huge part of solving that problem.
"We are thrilled to be a partner with Habitat and to help another family achieve their journey of home ownership. Through the financial support of the Community Foundation, along with all the work of the Habitat volunteers, we are one step closer to becoming that community that we aspire to be.”
Patty Silverman, a Habitat representative, said, Community Foundation of Cleveland is a facilitator for donations by individuals, families or corporations that meets with the donor to handle all the taxes and paperwork involved in the process so “the donor can just enjoy the joy of giving.”
Barrett was honored during the celebration with Habitat’s annual Habitat Hero Award for outstanding contribution for her volunteer work.
Dr. Miguel Vega, pastor at International Worship Center, also offered his blessings on the Rodriguez’s new home.
The Rodriguez couple, who moved to the U.S. from Puerto Rico in 1984, has been married almost 49 years. They are now retired and have three daughters, two sons, 13 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.
After living in a high-rent, second floor apartment, the Rodriguezes will now have an affordable, low-cost mortgage.
They like to be active around the house, to sit outside, and to garden, until now, these had not been an option.
Vicente Rodriguez said, “Our home will be like a therapy for me and my wife. We will be able to be outside more often, walk around, enjoy the sunshine, and garden — right in our own yard. We are thankful to God that He has brought us together with the Habitat team and has blessed us with an opportunity to own our own home.”
