From STAFF REPORTS, Cleveland Daily Banner

Area homebuilders put their skills to use last week and framed the first of five homes being built for Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland.

The group representing the Ocoee Region Builders Association donated time to frame the home at Morelock Meadows. Those volunteers also donated their services to roof and deck the single-family house, and make surfaces weather resistant.

The ORBA build is in the new subdivision at 133 Foster Lane SE, across the street from Blythe Bower Elementary School. This first single-family Habitat home here will be built for the James and Jessica Cullins family.

Jessica Cullins joined the ORBA team last week to work on the family’s “sweat equity” hours ⏤ a requirement for each Habitat homeowner.

The Cullins family has three sons, Jaheaven, Jahalen and Ju’sayaus, and a daughter, Jaliyssa. They also have a son, Ryan, who lives on his own. Another son, Jaheim, passed away in November 2018 at age 15.

They said they were excited to live right across the street from the school.

“We will not squander our gift of being a new homeowner," the family patriarch said. "This is one chance in a million that you get this. It’s not only that we don’t just take the gift and put it to the side. What we’re gonna do is build on it.”

Charlotte Peak, ORBA executive officer and incoming president of the Home Builders Association of Tennessee, has been instrumental in coordinating the team of volunteer construction experts. This home also will be sponsored by Chick-fil-A, which donated $37,500 from fundraising.

Peak spoke at the recent groundbreaking and said, “What a poignant day and moment to be building in a subdivision named for a dedicated volunteer, that I worked beside many times and many years, Jeff Morelock. We are so excited to be building the first home with Chick-fil-A, here in Morelock Meadows for the Cullins family. Together, we lobby for affordable housing.”

Added Keith Jones, 2022 ORBA president: “ORBA has been a community partner with Habitat for Humanity, advocating for affordable housing since its inception with Bob Sain. Together, we have built over 17 homes.

“We are excited to build this home, and for the impact it will have on this family through homeownership. Habitat’s motto of a “hand up, not a hand out” resonates through Bradley County as a model for all. Their requirement for direct involvement from the families who become the owner of these homes is the best example of personal investment, and it is what sets Habitat apart. This is what builds thriving communities and ORBA is proud to be a sponsor of this home.”