Habitat for Humanity home dedication welcomes first family to new neighborhood in City of Fort Myers

FORT MYERS, Fla. - July 19, 2023 - PRLog -- Habitat for Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties held the first home dedication of its new 29-home HOA community in the City of Fort Myers off Prospect Avenue. The event marked a significant milestone for the organization as it works towards its mission of providing safe, stable and affordable housing for families in need.

Community leaders, sponsors, volunteers, donors and Habitat staff welcomed a single mother of six to her new Habitat home during a dedication ceremony on June 27. Two of Christie Sowell's children are grown and have moved out, but the mother and four school-aged children had been living in a cramped two-bedroom apartment. Three of the children were using a triple bunk bed to share one bedroom. Now, their newly built Habitat home accommodates the entire family, featuring four bedrooms and more than 1,400 square feet of living space.

"We are deeply grateful for the unwavering support of our community, donors and local government," said Becky Lucas, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties. "Their collective efforts enable us to join hands with families, such as Christie's, in their journey toward purchasing an affordable home. This is another step in our ongoing commitment to provide safe and affordable housing in the City of Fort Myers."

Coca-Cola Beverages Florida (Coke Florida) sponsored the home build, which covers the costs of building materials, supplies and skilled labor needed to complete the home. In addition to financial support, a team of staff members contributed 240 volunteer hours towards the family's home. Coke Florida leadership and more than a dozen of their associates attended the home dedication to celebrate the family on its journey to homeownership.

"At Coke Florida, our intention with our community-focused engagement is never to simply contribute funds," said Jack Palmorn, Coke Florida's territory general manager for Fort Myers. "This Habitat partnership allows up to show up in a way that demonstrates the Coke Florida culture. Throughout construction, we get involved by grabbing hammers and nails and providing whatever help is needed to truly be a part of it. Together, we have built not just a home here in Fort Myers, but a symbol of hope and unity for this deserving family. The Coke Florida family is honored to have played a role in this journey with Habitat for Humanity, and we remain committed to making a positive impact in the communities we serve."

Over the last year, Habitat for Humanity built 66 affordable homes in Lee and Hendry counties, with 52 of the homebuyers being women.

To learn more about Habitat's Affordable Homeownership Program or to become a home sponsor, visit Habitat4Humanity.org. (http://www.habitat4humanity.org/)