Proud mom and her four children start new lives in Habitat for Humanity home

From STAFF REPORTS

Kayla Jackson has sacrificed so many things for her four children. But now, she is able to give them something that she previously was unable to do — a home.

Jackson became the 148th owner of a Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland home in a special dedication held Thursday. The home was one of four constructed this year in the Victory Cove subdivision, and was done as a part of the Women Build project.

“Thank God, because without him, none of this would be possible,” Jackson said at the dedication. “I want to give a huge shoutout to everyone involved throughout this process, this whole journey. You guys are amazing."

She added, “My children and I will be forever grateful. We are filled with so much joy and excitement and ready to start our new life and successful future in our new home."

Jackson and her four children have been living in a small duplex and a neighborhood unsafe for the children. Her daughter, NaShyah, was the victim of a car accident when she was a baby and is in a wheelchair. Her current residence’s driveway is slanted, so NaShyah can’t play outside in her wheelchair. It’s also difficult carrying her up and down stairs and getting into the house without a ramp. And, with a family of five, they have quickly outgrown their space.

“I’ve been looking for a house suitable for my daughter, who is handicapped, so I thought I would sign up for a Habitat house,” Jackson said. “I applied and had started the new homeowner and budgeting classes before I was accepted into the program. I was just so happy when I found out, I could have cried! It’s a blessing, because I can fix it to where it’s basically modified for NaShyah.”

NaShyah has two brothers — Tayhvon and Damias, who is only a year old. Her sister is Daionna.

This new home for the Jacksons is giving them a lot of hope for their future. NaShyah will be able to play outside and gain independence. The entire family will experience positive changes and a new freedom they’ve never experienced. They have already developed strong friendships with their neighbors in the Habitat program.

The dedication was held on a special day in the Cleveland and Bradley County community — Veterans Day, and those in attendance were thankful to be there, and to have been a part of helping Jackson into her new home.

“We salute our veterans here today, whether they’re near or far; let’s give them a hand,” said Stephanie Linkous, CEO for United Way of the Ocoee Region. “The United Way of the Ocoee Region has one simple vision and that is to give everyone in our community an opportunity for a better tomorrow. It has been a joy to partner with Habitat for Humanity over the last few months to make that ‘better tomorrow’ come true for the Jackson family.

“We know from observations that affordable housing is an issue in our community,” she added. “That is one of our four focus areas, so when the proposal for funding came through, we were pleased to offer Habitat a grant to make those dreams come true.”

Along with the United Way of the Ocoee Region, there were several other sponsors that made Jackson’s dream come true. They included Bradley Sunrise Rotary Club of Cleveland, Century Park Associates, Chick-fil-A, Community Foundation of Cleveland and Bradley County, Crossroads Church, David and Ellen Smith, Harry S. Truman Club, Jack McKee, Jill Culpepper, Karen Colley, Laura Anderson, Lisa Mantooth, Mark and Beverly Johnson, North Cleveland Church of God, Pat Fuller/Girls in Pearls, Patty Silverman, Southern Heritage Bank/First Citizens National Bank, Tennessee Flash Senior Olympic basketball team, Tommy and Tracey Wright, Wacker Polysilicon, Whirlpool Call Center, Whirlpool Corporation, and William and Marilyn Kearney.

Also at the dedication was the presentation of a Habitat Hero Award to past Habitat Board President Andy Anderson. The award was presented by Lamanda Bowers, Habitat Volunteer Services manager.

“His heart is huge. He is an inspirational leader and he truly displays what it means to be the change in the world,” Bowers said of the recipient. “The love of Christ flows through him and he is truly a Habitat Hero. I’m so thankful to know him. Anybody that meets him, your life is better by knowing him.”

Pastor Bob Zwarych attends each dedication, and presents a Bible to the new homeowner. He also points out that the Bible tells everyone that building such a house for someone in need is a “labor of love.”

“There’s so much to rejoice and be glad about, as Kayla Jackson and her family are getting a brand new home. The Bible tells us that unless the Lord builds the house, those who labor, labor in vain. This was a labor of love," Zwarych said. "The Bible also tells us that it’s by wisdom that a house is built. It’s through understanding that it is established and it’s through knowledge that it’s rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures.

“Kayla, you have four rare and beautiful treasures that are ready to move into this home,” he said.

Jackson said that she and her family are ready to move in, but also wanted to stress how thankful she was for Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland helping her make this dream a reality.

“Habitat is a hand up and not a hand out. So with that being said, I accomplished one of my biggest dreams with Habitat,” she said. “I am so grateful and will be forever grateful for that.”

Habitat to hold 148th home dedication honoring the Jackson family

Posted Wednesday, November 10, 2021 4:50 am

Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland will hold a home dedication ceremony on Thursday in honor of new Habitat homeowner, Kayla Jackson and her four children.

The Jackson home marks the 148th home built in Bradley County. It is named the Women Build home. The ceremony will begin at 11 a.m. at the Victory Cove Subdivision, 1228 Franitza Way S.W. It will also be live on Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland’s Facebook page.
Jackson is a selfless and loving, single mom of four beautiful children. They are her world, and she looks forward to coming straight home to them after work.

"I do everything I can for my babies," Jackson said with a proud smile. "I have one pair of shoes and my kids have everything."

Her oldest son is Tayhvon, and her youngest son is Damias, a year old. Her middle children are precious girls — NaShyah, and Daionna.
NaShyah, was in a car accident when she was a baby and is in a wheelchair.

Jackson said, “I’ve been looking for a house suitable for my daughter, who is handicapped, so I thought I would sign up for a Habitat house. I applied and had started the new homeowner and budgeting classes before I was accepted into the program. I was just so happy when I found out, I could have cried! It’s a blessing, because I can fix it to where it’s basically modified for NaShyah.”
The Jacksons currently live in a small duplex ina neighborhood unsafe for the children. The driveway is slanted, so NaShyah can’t play outside in her wheelchair. It’s also difficult carrying her up and down stairs and getting into the house without a ramp. With a family of five, they have quickly outgrown the space.
This new home for the Jacksons is giving them a lot of hope for their future. NaShya will be able to play outside and gain independence. The entire family will experience positive changes and a new freedom they’ve never experienced. They have already developed great friendships with their neighbors in the Habitat program.
Sponsors for the Women Build include: Bradley Sunrise Rotary Club of Cleveland, Century Park Associates, Chick-fil-A, Community Foundation of Cleveland and Bradley County, Crossroads Church, David and Ellen Smith, Harry S. Truman Club, Jack McKee, Jill Culpepper, Karen Colley, Laura Anderson, Lisa Mantooth, Mark & Beverly Johnson, North Cleveland Church of God, Pat Fuller/Girls in Pearls, Patty Silverman, Southern Heritage Bank/First Citizens National Bank, Tennessee Flash Senior Olympic basketball team, Tommy and Tracey Wright, United Way of the Ocoee Region, Wacker Polysillicon, Whirlpool Call Center, Whirlpool Corporation and William and Marilyn Kearney.

How it all began: Original Habitat volunteer visits Cleveland

By KAITLIN GEBBY

On April 1, 1977, Clive Rainey said yes to an opportunity that would forever change the landscape of affordable housing.

Rainey was the first volunteer of Habitat for Humanity, and was in Cleveland this week to offer his inspiring story to the local Habitat organization during its board retreat.

Rainey's connection to the nonprofit came from his friendship with the founders, Millard and Linda Fuller, who asked him if he would help out with their missions to build homes in Africa.

“I wasn’t ready to go,” Rainey said.

At age 30, he was a teacher in Georgia. His students were often from “very poor” circumstances, so he felt his job was to educate them for a chance at a better future.

“We have kids in school who couldn’t read their own names, and they were in the seventh and eighth grade,” Rainey said.

“One day a little girl said to me, ‘Why do we have to learn this old stuff anyway?’ And I said ‘Because if you have an education, you'll get a better life.’ And she came back at me and said, ‘Yeah, that's what they told my mama.’ So that evening I went to find the mama, and found them living in a shack with literally no doors or windows, no running water, no electricity and no hope.”

After that, he went back to the Fullers.

“I went back to Millard and said, ‘You win. I’d waste my life in classrooms like that unless I get to kids at an earlier stage.’ And I was in, that’s how it all began for me,” he said.

He started out doing odd jobs, “whatever needed to be done,” before heading to Africa for Habitat. He eventually oversaw the family selection committee and introduced the concept of “sweat equity” as a key component of Habitat’s program.

Over the next 35 years, he would be part of countless houses built for people in need. Habitat estimates 30 million people worldwide have been placed in a house built by Habitat for Humanity. Rainey said the organization especially gained steam when former President Jimmy Carter brought the organization into the national spotlight.

Though he didn’t return to the classroom, Rainey did one day see the lives of children improve through education while he was in Guatemala, where he lives now.

“I actually met three little boys on a build site who were going hungry,” Rainey said.

He learned they lived with their mom and “a huge family,” but their dad was no longer around to provide for them.

“I just stepped in and started helping the family. And I lived there for 10 years and saw those boys grow. And yes, I've had a lot of influence on their lives,” he said.

As the very first volunteer for the nonprofit, standing in the yard of one of the dozens of homes in a neighborhood established by Habitat for Humanity, Rainey said he is now seeing what stable housing has afforded generations of families.

“I sat with one of these older friends just last week in her kitchen, and her young grandson walked in. Bright-faced, happy and seeing so far beyond anything that I or his grandmother could have imagined. You can see the future in his eyes. That’s what it's done for me. The ability to see the future, and to believe in it.”

Though Rainey has been part of countless Habitat builds, he said the job is never done. He said there are so many factors that continue to change the hurdles in the housing problem in the United States and around the world, but he said housing is the answer to crime, education, “and should be number one on our country’s agenda.”

“Until we have everybody in this country, and frankly around the world, decently housed, our work will not be done.”

KEREA AND KYREECE WESTFIELD GET A 'WELCOME HOME!'

By ALLEN MINCEY

Kerea Westfield said that she is ready to move into her new Habitat for Humanity home as soon as possible, and if her son's — Kyreece — fidgety motions are any indication, he is, too.

The Westfields are the newest owners of a Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland home in the Victory Cove subdivision. The home was dedicated, and the ribbon cut, at a special ceremony held Tuesday morning.

The home was constructed as a part of the Leaders Build and Law Build, and was the 147th home built by Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland in its 30-year history. It was the third dedication this year in Victory Cove.

“This is the culmination of what Habitat does,” said Patty Silverman, Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland board chair, as she welcomed the dozens who attended the dedication.

Silverman reminded everyone the home constructed for Kerea and Kyreece Westfield was built with love, and will be a place that love will reside.

“It’s not a building, but it is a place where love will dwell, where life will happen, and memories will be made for Kerea and Kyreece,” said Silverman.

The board chair said “there were 160 volunteers that put their hands to this home. When we build a home, it’s a construction crew, but 160 community members came out to build."

She added, "There were 14 build teams that worked on this home. Not only that, but Kerea and Kyreece did a little bit of labor of love on this, too. They put 350 working hours on this home.”

Tammy Johnson, Habitat director, said Westfield was at the home, working with others, almost every day. New home owners are required to put in some “sweat equity” in the building of their new home, and she said that Westfield went above and beyond that requirement.

“This is one of the best days that we have all year,” Johnson said. “It’s my favorite thing that we do all year long. It always reminds me that it takes a community to raise a family."

Johnson stressed, "Kerea has been an incredibly hard worker. She has been here for the whole time, every step of the way, and been very involved."

Westfield said she had so many emotions running through her during the dedication.

“I feel excited, I feel thankful, I feel ecstatic, and I’m ready for closing day now,” she said. “We were in Cleveland Housing on Clemmer Street, and this will be our first home. And the first thing I am going to do when I get in there … is decorate … hopefully for Christmas.”

Along with the new home, Westfield said she gained even more through working with Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland.

“During this process, I’ve learned how to budget, be a good neighbor, and, most of all, how to build a home,” Westfield said. “I’ve met so many kind-hearted people during this build, from attorneys, to judges, different church organizations, Lee [University] students, and many, many more. Each of them offered their time and kind words at the job site, and, believe me, they didn’t go unnoticed.”

The diversity of those who worked on the Westfield home build was not lost on those in attendance, especially those who were involved in the Leaders and Law Build.

“As I was looking about this diverse group here, this is a group that brings everybody together,” said state Sen. Mike Bell, who was among those who participated in the Leaders Build. “We had churches, businesses, attorneys and individuals come together with one mission, to see this home completed for a person and the security of having a house.”

During the dedication ceremony, a long-time Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland supporter was posthumously honored as a “Habitat Hero” — Charley Bolick. Jerry Franitza, who worked with Bolick on many home builds, spoke about his friend.

“I am going to call him “Mr. Electric, because that is what he was,” Franitza said. “Mr. Electric retired from Olin Chemical Company in 1991, and his wife got on him for several years to come out and be a Habitat volunteer."

Franitza continued, "Finally, he came out and helped, and he did a lot for Habitat. He was the greatest guy I ever knew. He was one of the great volunteers. He worked for Habitat for over 20 years and he worked on over, I would guess, 80 homes, so I want to thank Charley for everything he did.”

Others who spoke at the event included Ellen Dobbs of Easy Auto, one of the major sponsors of the build; Mara Grisham, who represented the family advocates for Habitat; and Pastor Bob Zwarych, who as he does at all Habitat dedications, presented the Westfields with a Bible. Westfield’s pastor, Beverley McCowan of the Pneuma Christian Center, gave the closing prayer before the ribbon cutting.

Silverman summed up the event by saying that the new Westfield home will be one that is built on love of neighbors, and love of God.

“There was a moment when [the volunteers] could come in and write a piece of scripture on the walls, so underneath this paint, there are scriptures all over your home, Kerea, that will be the foundation of your home,” Silverman told the new homeowner.

Habitat for Humanity remembers Jeff Morelock

By ALLEN MINCEY

“Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control … are fruits of the spirit.”

Those were some of the last sentiments that Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland’s Tammy Johnson remembers voiced by longtime supporter Jeff Morelock.

Morelock, who passed away Feb. 13, was remembered for his dedication to the local Habitat for Humanity chapter at a special ceremony Friday at Victory Cove, a Habitat subdivision. His family was in attendance, as were several members from First Cumberland Presbyterian Church, where Morelock was a member.

The event was held as a tribute to Morelock, who not only worked as a volunteer with Habitat, but also served as the organization’s board president for four years. In 2020, he was named a Habitat Hero. He, himself, said he was no carpenter, but tried his best to help in building homes in the community.

“Years ago, our church was doing work on another Habitat home … and my dad pulled me in to help. I can tell you, my dad was not much of a carpenter,” said Davis Morelock with a smile. “He was very good in motivating people to get the project done and get the work done.

“Over the last 10 years or so, he really stepped away from other nonprofits and spent his time with Habitat, because that was his passion,” he continued. “Thank you to all who volunteer, to the staff, and to anyone who participated in one way or the other … and thank you for honoring my father.”

Kathy Morelock, Jeff’s wife, greeted everyone at the ceremony with a smile and tried to speak to everyone at the event, but was at a loss for words when she approached the podium. She did especially thank the Habitat for Humanity staff, and those from the church who came to the ceremony, stayed and did some volunteer work on the home that will be dedicated on Tuesday.

“We call ourselves a church, but we are really a family,” said Kathy Morelock. “I really appreciate all of you coming out today.”

Pastor Jennifer Newell of First Presbyterian Church spoke of Morelock’s dedication to helping others, and volunteered to work on the Habitat home. She pointed to Morelock’s character leading him to help others, appropriately quoting a scripture from the Bible.

“Isaiah 38:2 reads ‘but he who is noble plans noble things, and on noble things he stands.’ That was Jeff Morelock,” she said.

Johnson said even as Morelock was battling illness, he stayed in touch with her, and would drive by the building projects and talk to her from his vehicle.

“I have such a deep love and affection for Jeff. He was such a kind, loving mentor to me,” she said. “I keep his picture on my desktop computer that has his hand on a 2-by-4 where he wrote, ‘Good luck and blessing’.”

Two photographs of Morelock were presented to the family at the ceremony, one of which was the picture Johnson mentioned. Along with Kathy and Davis Morelock, other family members in attendance were Davis’ wife Ashlan, and their children: Emma Ann and Jefferson.

Johnson announced the next building project for Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland will be at 20th Street S.E. and Foster Lane S.E., near Blythe-Bower Elementary School.

“Jeff left a silent but strong legacy with us at Habitat. He never asked for public praise and was a true servant,” she said. “We will continue his legacy by breaking ground on a new subdivision next year called Morelock Meadows. We would love to have family and friends return to help with that build.”

Dedication for the Kerea Westfield Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland home is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 12, at 11 a.m. at the home at 1223 Franitza Way.

Whirlpool, Habitat partner to build houses that better withstand storms

By TIM SINIARD

Whirlpool Corporation and Habitat for Humanity are working together to build better houses with climate change and energy efficiency in mind.

Earlier this month, Whirlpool announced Habitat for Humanity’s "BuildBetter with Whirlpool" initiative, an expansion of Habitat’s existing BuildBetter program that will deliver more than 250 climate-resilient and energy-efficient homes to hundreds of Americans in need of affordable housing over the next three years.

Through House + Home, Whirlpool will support Habitat for Humanity to construct homes designed to better withstand storm winds, natural disasters and other severe weather events that are intensifying.

The initiative is the centerpiece of Whirlpool Corporation’s 21-year, nearly $130 million renewed relationship with Habitat.

According to Whirlpool, the broadened initiative "sits at the heart of the appliance manufacturer's global corporate social responsibility approach called "House + Home," that contributes to comfortable and nurturing places to live and supports resilient, thriving and sustainable communities.”

D. Jeffrey Noel, Whirlpool’s corporate vice president for communications and public affairs, told the Cleveland Daily Banner that Whirlpool and Habitat want homes they assist in constructing “to be better weather resistant, be more cost effective and be more secure for the homeowners.”

“Every family deserves to have a shelter and a place to call home,” Noel said.

He said the homes will also "help reduce operating costs for homeowners with limited budgets, through an expected improvement in energy efficiency of approximately 15% compared to homes built to current local government code, contributing to a more sustainable future for local communities."

“These are the kinds of things we know really help homeowners, and, if you're a homeowner and you're working on a fixed budget, you can't afford surprises,” Noel said.

He said improving life at home has always been at the heart of Whirlpool’s business strategy.

“It doesn’t matter who you are or where you live — a comfortable, nurturing home is essential for everyone,” he said. “This initiative continues our long history of leveraging our innovative, quality appliances and philanthropic support to improve life at home for people around the world.”

Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity, said Whirlpool has been a "tremendous partner in helping us improve and broaden the ways we can help more families achieve housing stability.”

“Through the launch of our BuildBetter initiative, Whirlpool’s support will help us accelerate the construction of resilient, energy-efficient homes and can result in greater savings for families,” he said “Whirlpool’s dedication to this program will enable the focused research needed to expand sustainable housing to even more communities, helping with neighborhood revitalization and environmental impact.”

Reckford said in order to enhance storm-resilient measures, such as secure-and-sealed roof decks, all homeowners under the program will be eligible to choose at least one upgrade that addresses a hazard specific to their state, including enhanced flood or fire defense.

Habitat organizations participating in the program will receive technical guidance on construction design and implementation, as well as funding for energy-efficient upgrades. Whirlpool Corporation employees are volunteering to help build these homes with Habitat for Humanity. Construction began July 2021.

In addition to the BuildBetter with Whirlpool initiative, Whirlpool Corporation and Habitat for Humanity are also collaborating to:

• Provide a range and refrigerator for every new Habitat home built in the United States and Canada;

• Help advance the Habitat Cost of Home advocacy campaign, a five-year program through which local Habitat organizations, partners, volunteers and community members across the United States work together to help 10 million people have access to an affordable home.

With the addition of these contributions, Whirlpool Corporation has donated nearly $130 million to Habitat for Humanity International and supported Habitat programs in 45 countries.

Whirlpool operates a plant in Cleveland, where approximately 1,500 are employed.

In 2012, the company relocated to a new one million-square-foot, state-of-the-art, LEED-certified facility on Benton Pike in 2012.

For more details on Whirlpool Corporation's sustainability efforts, please visit the company’s 2020 Sustainability Report at http://www.whirlpoolcorp.com/2020SustainabilityReport/

Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland earns state affiliate award

From STAFF REPORTS

Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland has received the 2021 Affiliate of the Year Award for the state of Tennessee.

The presentation came earlier this month during the state organization's annual conference in Murfreesboro.

The award was presented to Executive Director Tammy Johnson by Rutherford County Circuit Court Judge Barry Tidwell, along with Colleen Dudley, state executive director.

With the challenges of a pandemic and destructive tornadoes last year, Habitat for Humanity of Tennessee saw many heroes around the state rising to the top, according to Johnson. She said there were a number of nominations for affiliates who were out front, serving their communities in difficult times, encouraging their staff, looking everywhere for funding to continue to provide housing so more people could be “Safe at Home," and not just during a pandemic.

"Habitat of Cleveland was selected for providing outstanding service to families and their community through extraordinarily trying times, and for exhibiting exemplary leadership," state Habitat presenters explained at the recent conference.

Johnson pointed out the Cleveland affiliate was among many looking for new ways and innovative outlets to help its community.

"In the shutdown during the spring of 2020, the entire staff of Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland worked hard despite all the uncertainty — applying for grants and reaching out to check on volunteers, donors and foundations," Johnson explained. "Critically, the staff kept encouraging one another and the community via social media and other outlets."

She pointed out, "Construction was considered essential, so subcontractors kept working. Staff rotated in small groups to stock the ReStore and help to get building done. Through all of this, the board members always did whatever was needed to help complete goals."

After reopening, the local Habitat affiliate hosted Gov. Bill Lee and First Lady Maria Lee at a build. It was a high-profile event that raised awareness that Habitat was still going, Johnson said.

"The staff reached out and enlisted volunteers," she advised. "Through these efforts, we finished all five scheduled home builds in 2020, despite the challenges of contractor delays and rising materials costs."

Shortly after reopening, an anonymous donor gifted Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland with almost $400,000, which became the beginning of the Hope for Habitat Endowment Fund.

"This gift contributes to the costs of future building plans for families in Bradley County," Johnson noted. "In addition, the ReStore sales are up almost 20% over last year and currently operating at a 50% net profit."

After returning to Cleveland with the state award, Johnson addressed her hard-working staff.

"I’m incredibly proud of, and happy to be working alongside you," she stressed. "Each of you brings talents and gifts that make our team strong, and I’m truly grateful for each of your contributions.”

Many of the staff, board members and volunteers gathered Wednesday at one of the Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland homes in the Victory Cove subdivision, and later were provided a special lunch courtesy of Scott McGowan and The Old Fort restaurant, celebrating the award.

"Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland seeks to put God’s love into action by bringing people together to build and repair homes, communities and hope," Johnson said.

For more information about Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland and the ReStore, visit www.HabitatofCleveland.org.

Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland looks at different housing types

By ALLEN MINCEY

Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland has been building homes for residents in this area for more than 30 years, and for the most part, those homes have been single structures. Recently, the organization has delved into duplexes which houses two separate families.

In 2022, Habitat may be looking at increasing those housing units into spaces for four families, as plans for a quadplex are being explored.

“For the first time in our local affiliate’s history, we are going to be building a quadplex,” Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland Executive Director Tammy Johnson revealed. “Right now, we are working with the city to finalize plans for that.

“The quadplex design is going to be a two-story (structure) in the middle, and then single-story on the end,” she explained. Johnson said  this would not change the direction of Habitat from still providing single-family homes.

This past week, Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland dedicated a duplex for William and Rebekah Ashe and Merilee (Maggie) Fyffe. It may have come as a surprise  this type of residence was dedicated, yet it was not the first, Johnson said.

“This isn't the first … we have another in this neighborhood, but it's been a while since we built this style,” she said. “These are 900-square feet on each side. We have a single female (Fyffe) and then we have a married couple (the Ashes).

“And this is a great situation for them to be neighbors, and it also allows, William, who is blind, to be able to have easy access to his home,” Johnson said, and to have a neighbor nearby that can help if the need arises.

The Habitat executive director said  the quadplex is planned for property the organization has near Blythe-Bower Elementary School.

“We’re working with the city to finalize that,” Johnson said. “We're actually working on prepping that land right now. We're working with Cathy Andrews (the city’s Redevelopment coordinator) with the community development block grant funding. The City of Cleveland is actually going to help us with a chunk of the infrastructure cost.”

Johnson mentioned  working with Andrews and Corey Divel, assistant to the city manager and communications coordinator, is making the project easier to plan. Divel is also on the Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland Board of Directors.

She added  the new Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland subdivision near the elementary school will be named “Morelock Meadows,” named after long-time Habitat supporter Jeff Morelock, who passed away earlier this year.

She said  plans for 2022 are for five residences to be constructed, with one of those being a holdover from this year. That will bring the total for Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland homes up to over 150 in the 30-plus years of existence for the local organization.

Johnson said  there is a waiting list for those who wish to become Habitat homeowners, and encourages anyone wishing to learn about applying for such a home to go to the organization’s website. She also said  there is another waiting list that is something new to the group.

“We actually are starting a 2022 waiting list for people who want to come and help, and for sponsors,” she said. “This is the first time that I can ever remember us having this type of waiting list.”

Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland depends on sponsors and donations, but also on volunteers who help homeowners build the residences. This year, the four homes have had groups involved in titled efforts, including the Women Build, Law Build, Faith Build, Legacy Build and Leaders Build, but there is always room for more.

To find out more about Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland, visit the organization’s website at www.habitatofcleveland.org or visit its Facebook page.

Habitat dedication brings two sets of homeowner smiles

By ALLEN MINCEY

Victory Cove residents will soon have two new sets of neighbors following dedications Tuesday of residences constructed through Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland.

William and Rebekah Ashe and Merilee (Maggie) Fyffe will now be the 145th and 146th homeowners of a Habitat home in Cleveland. While the residents there will have new neighbors, the Ashes and Fyffe will be even closer neighbors, as they will be residing in a duplex especially built for them.

“While we were praying for a safe home of our own,” Rebekah said, “God already prepared a wonderful person to live next door. We couldn't have asked for a better friend and neighbor.”

Maggie, as everyone called her, agreed, and may be approaching her new neighbors for some cooking tips.

“I can see me looking out the window, and I can envision a table there in front of the window and of course I've got my coffee and I'm looking and there are my grandchildren in the backyard. I can see myself in the kitchen with my grandchildren,” she said. “And we're baking cookies, although they may not taste too good because I cannot cook, but it's okay. They are my grandchildren, they still love me, they will accept it.”

The stories of the new homeowners made the dedication Tuesday even more special.

William Ashe is legally blind, and relies on the eyes and kindness of others to navigate daily life. In fact, that led to him meeting Rebekah, as he was shopping at Walmart as best he could, but needed some assistance. In stepped Rebekah to help.

“I remember hearing that Becky’s manager at Walmart asked her to help William, and when they met, it was magic,” said Pastor Ryan Boldman of Bowman Hills Seventh-day Adventist Church.

He said the two became inseparable and eventually married.

The Ashes currently live in an apartment with stairs that are difficult, and dangerous, for William to negotiate, so a single-level home was a dream, and a necessity.

“A one-level house is what we need the most, and with Habitat’s help, we will have exactly what we need,” said Rebekah.

Maggie had a similar situation, as she struggled after her husband left her and her two daughters several years ago. While she had a job, financial pressures being a single parent were mounting and the trio were evicted from their home.

One of her daughters eventually became a Habitat homeowner herself, and suggested to Maggie that she should apply for such assistance. It took eight months, but she became a Habitat homeowner herself, and could not help from smiling, and cheering, at Tuesday’s dedication.

“I have to give honor today and a big shout-out to God the Father, that He bestows upon each and everyone of us, all good blessings, and I'm happy to give a shoutout and thank Habitat, and the board and all the workers,” she said. “And I have to say this because, I'm just being me … Happy Dedication Day.”

The two residences were a part of a four-home building project for Victory Cove this year. Work is progressing on two homes just up the street from the Ashes and Fyffe’s homes, one for Kerea and Kyreece Westfield (the Leaders Build project) and one for the Kayla Jackson family (the Women Build project). Both Kerea and Kayla were in attendance at Tuesday’s dedication.

The Ashe and Fyffe homes were special projects by Habitat also, with the Ashe home being sponsored by the Faith Build project, and the Fyffe home being the Legacy Build project.

Faith Build sponsors were Andy and Laura Anderson, Bowman Hills Seventh-Day Adventist Church, Broad Street United Methodist Church, Community Foundation of Cleveland and Bradley County, Eaton Corporation, Farmland Community Church, Father Mike Nolan, First Baptist Cleveland, First Presbyterian Church, Jack and Vicky Byrd, Jacinto’s Auto Sales LLC, Keith Street Ministries, Knights of Columbus, McReynolds Family Foundation, Mt. Olive Church of God, Nick and Mara Grisham, North Cleveland COG, Phil and Yaunna Higgins, Professional Title Services, Pyramid Construction, Rebecca Jabaley, The Chapel, Verrill Norwood and Westwood Baptist Church.

Legacy Build sponsors included Bank of Cleveland, Barry Boettner, Carolyn Ingram-Franitza, Chandler Properties, Cleveland/Bradley Chamber Youth Leadership, Community Foundation of Cleveland and Bradley County, Corey Divel, David and Ellen Smith, Don Rollens Legacy Fund, Doug Berry, Fitzgerald Family Foundation, George R. Johnson Foundation/Hardee's, Habitat for Humanity International, Jeff and Kathy Morelock, Julian Sullivan and Publix Super Markets Charities.

Tammy Johnson, Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland executive director, said that while the homes were dedicated Tuesday, the families will not yet be able to move in.

“This is a symbolic moment where we pass the key (to the new owners) … but you will also see a reality that we have had to deal with,” she said. “You will see a very real reality that we have been facing. In years past, when we ordered cabinets for homes, it typically took maybe two or three weeks to get the cabinets. Last year with COVID, it took five weeks. This year, we ordered in plenty of time, we were told maybe seven-to-eight weeks, and we still don't have cabinets.”

She said there are hopes the cabinets will arrive soon, and installed quickly, so the two new homeowner families can move in and enjoy their new residences.

To find out more about Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland, visit the website at www.habitatofcleveland.org or visit Habitat’s ReStore at www.restoreofcleveland.org.

Habitat for Humanity weathering COVID-related challenges

By ALLEN MINCEY

Building materials have been either in short supply or available at higher costs as the COVID-19 pandemic struck the United States. Habitat for Humanity organizations across the country have not been immune from those challenges.

That includes Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland, which Executive Director Tammy Johnson said presented barriers that the local organization has worked through.

“We have continued building homes and creating a stronger community despite unforeseen challenges,” she said.

Johnson mentioned these challenges at this week’s dedication of two homes for residents in the Victory Cove subdivision.

“We have seen a 30-to-40 percent increase in construction material costs, but God has provided,” Johnson said. “There continue to be subcontractor delays, but God daily shows us grace. His guidance is evident in the way folks donate and shop at the ReStore, knowing those funds help with land and infrastructure costs is a way our community helps offer more Bradley County families a hand up, and not a handout.”

In many cases across the country, there have been even more challenges than just higher costs and delays. Some Habitat for Humanity affiliates have also seen decreases in volunteers as the pandemic kept many from giving their time for fear of the virus. Some affiliates also limited the number of volunteers due to the pandemic.

“Our team of staff, volunteers, sponsors, board members and homeowners have weathered the storms of the past year,” Johnson said.

She praised those who have continued to work with Habitat through the pandemic, stating that “you have invested in each other. You have served our community by swinging a hammer, offering valuable time and financial gifts while displaying hope and courage.”

Yet, the pandemic even caused a delay in the two new homeowners — William and Rebekah Ashe, and Merilee Fyffe — actually getting to move into their new home after the Tuesday dedication.

“Getting things shipped has been a challenge,” Johnson said. “You don't know how long it's going to take. The cabinets for these families … usually it would take two or three weeks, but last year we're talking five, and we were told seven to eight this year, and now it's gone beyond that.

“And there are literally things sitting in ports that we need, and you can't do the final work on a home, do the final inspection and let the homeowner move in without them,” she added. “This causes some challenges for them because of their renting, they're ready to get into their home, and we have it all ready to go except for these final few things and they can't move in.”

Johnson said that a final inspection must be performed before occupancy, and that cannot occur until the home is complete.

“I will say that these families have handled it like a champ,” she smiled. “Our homeowners knew that we have a lot of unforeseen challenges this year and they've been gracious, they've been very flexible and wonderful to work with.”

One thing that the pandemic did not affect drastically in Cleveland is the ReStore. Manager Dave Williams said that this year, especially the past few months, has been especially profitable for the store.

“The community has been great at donating,” said Williams. “Of course, when we were closed a year ago, in April for the month, then reopened in May, we didn't know what we were getting into.

“So we didn't know what the future held — we just kind of were going blindly a little bit — but from that May until today, it has been non-stop. We were getting donations from the community like crazy in May, June, July, August …”

He said that even through the pandemic, the ReStore saw many of its regular customers still shopping, and donating, in 2020 and into 2021.

“I got some customers been four or five times a week just because of what's coming in next,” he said.

Williams said that he feels the ReStore promotes a “cycle of blessings.”

“People in our community blessed us with something big or small. We sell that at a reasonable price, which is a blessing and then in return we take the funds and the profits from that to build these homes,” he said.

Even with higher construction costs, and with an increase in sales at the ReStore, Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland still will be completing two more homes in Victory Cove this year, and plans are for five new residences to be built in 2022.