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Our Newest Home transforms a neighborhood

We invite you to read this inspiring letter...

November 2, 2009

Dear Friends and Family,

I would like to take a minute and share something with you that I had the privilege to see this past Saturday. Normally on the weekends I will not budge from my bed at an early hour, but my husband asked me to attend this event and I said I would go.

I would not normally share what I am about to share with you, I am turning over a new leaf in life. So here it is. Saturday, October 31, 2009, I attended a house dedication with Habitat for Humanity. I am about to show you the before pictures of this property. They are not pretty, so be prepared. This is no 3rd world nation, this is right here out in our own backyards in Riverside. So many people say they want to help, and here you can help your own community.

This was previously a drug house on 37th Street. It was a blight in the neighborhood. With this build, other neighbors are coming together and fixing up their homes. It look weeks to haul all the trash away.

This beautiful home will house a married couple and their 3 children under age 6. They were living in a one bedroom apartment.This home touts many “Green” features, from the roof to the yard. Looking at these pictures, it is hard to believe a beautiful home came from rubble.

There are Americans living like this. Some by choice, some because there is nowhere else to go. But the great things that make America the best country in the world, is human spirit and humanity. People came together, companies volunteered tools, material and most important their time. People volunteered their time, even if it was to photo document the build, or prepare lunches for all of the volunteers. It makes me proud I live here, and I will be joining the Habitat family because I believe in the cause. As with all things in this world, Habitat for Humanity cannot survive without donations. Donations do not have to be monetary. They can be your time or supplies. It could be helping make 100 sandwiches and drinks to feed the volunteers.

We are nearing the end of 2009, and there are still a few of you out there who want or need to give to a charity. I feel a charity that gives a family a home is one of the best ways to spend your money.

You can also help by shopping at Habitat Re-store.

The one in Riverside is located at

HFH Riverside
2121 Atlanta Ave. Suite B3
Riverside, CA 92507

The Re-Store carries tools, parts, and every Handyman's dreams at a lower cost than major stores. All proceeds benefit Habitat for Humanity. If you would like to make a donation by check, please mail to:

HFH Riverside
P.O. Box 2216
Riverside, CA 92516-2216

If you would like to make a donation by cash, PayPal or credit card, or set up a monthly stipend please go to the HFH web site and they can assist you.

http://www.habitatriverside.org/

Your gifts are tax deductible if you itemize on your tax return. Even if you can't deduct your donation, know that you have helped put one more family closer to having a home.

The families are not just given these home. They put in sweat equity, they volunteer at the Re-Store, and they help other families on their builds. There are families that without Habitat would most likely never have a place of their own to call home. They also pay a mortgage, so you are not paying a hand out, you are giving a hand up.

For those of you outside the Riverside area, please check the website for you nearest location. I hope all of you will consider this a worthy charity, because the smiles I saw on the family members Saturday were brighter than any Broadway show lights I've ever seen

Thank you for your time, and here's to better living and loving in 2010!!

Sincerely yours.

Wendy M.