Habitat for Humanity of the Middle Keys recently celebrated a significant milestone, welcoming three local families into homeownership. The organization dedicated its 49th, 50th, and 51st homes during a ceremony held on July 1 in Marathon.

New Homes Dedicated

The event, held at the newly constructed duplex on 105th Street, honored two families who will reside in the new units. A third family was also recognized for taking ownership of a previously built Habitat for Humanity home located on 51st Street.

“Our work is vital to the sustainability of our community and our island,” stated Habitat for Humanity of the Middle Keys Executive Director Chris Todd Young. “Habitat is sincerely grateful to our supporters who made this day possible.”

Young acknowledged the substantial contributions of sponsors D’Asign Source and Aquarium Encounters, each donating $200,000 towards the construction of the new homes. Following opening remarks from Chris Gratton, owner of Keys Contracting Services, and Peter Barbuti, District Sales Manager for Affinity Modular, Habitat Family Services Manager Meghan Bolen introduced the families. Each family received a welcome basket from Habitat and a cutting board from Affinity Modular.

Pastor John Krainer led attendees in the Litany of Dedication for the families: Demetrius, Charmel, and Ali, along with Jorge, Nicole, and Amelia from the 105th Street home, and Brandon, Nicole, Eli, and Leo from the 51st Street duplex. A ribbon-cutting ceremony followed, with all three families participating. The dedication was attended by numerous city and county dignitaries, including Monroe County Mayor Michelle Lincoln, Marathon Mayor Lynny Del Gaizo, Marathon City Council member Robyn Still, City Clerk Diane Clavier, and Parks and Recreation Director Scott Williamson.

Community Support and Home Details

Additional financial backing for the building project came from Publix Super Markets Charities, Baptist Health, First Horizon Foundation, the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys, and the Florida Association of Realtors. The organization also received support from numerous individual, business, and community donors. More information about Habitat for Humanity's work can be found on their website, which details their mission to provide affordable housing. Habitat for Humanity is dedicated to building homes and hope in communities worldwide.

The new duplex units at the 105th Street location each feature two bedrooms and 1½ bathrooms. The home on 51st Street is larger, offering three bedrooms and 2½ bathrooms. A key component of Habitat for Humanity's program is the requirement for homeowners to contribute “sweat equity.” Families are mandated to complete 100 hours of work towards the building and preparation of their homes. Executive Director Young noted that each family will collectively contribute 350 hours of sweat equity, with an additional 250 hours dedicated to assisting Habitat for Humanity of the Middle Keys and other local non-profit organizations. This hands-on involvement ensures a deep connection to their new homes and reinforces the community's collaborative spirit. The Florida Keys, like many regions, face challenges in affordable housing, and initiatives like these are crucial for local families. The Florida Realtors organization often supports initiatives aimed at increasing housing accessibility across the state.