Town of Islip, NY – February 23, 2021 – In a home dedication and key presentation ceremony, Shelly Williams took possession of a new home built by volunteers of Habitat for Humanity of Suffolk.
Ms. Williams, a single mother of two, was previously living with her mother and had faced many struggles with renting homes in the past. “As a renter you’re always going to be at the mercy of others,” said Ms. Williams, reflecting on her past struggles when homes she had rented with her family were foreclosed on. “It has always been my desire to be a homeowner and being accepted into the Habitat Family was a blessing. I am extremely thankful that God answered my prayers, and now I have a safe place for my children if they ever need it.”
Lee Silberman, CEO & Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Suffolk, led the ceremony and presented the keys to Ms. Williams. “The pandemic has shined a light on the affordable housing crisis in our community,” he said, adding, “We are happy that despite the current challenges we are still able to work to support the community and provide affordable housing to those in need.”
As is typical, Ms. Williams’ new home was acquired with a partially subsidized bank mortgage and a second “soft” mortgage (below prevailing interest rates) from Habitat Suffolk. This arrangement enables the homebuyer to meet down payment requirements and closing costs.
The home was built with the assistance of Island Outreach Foundation. Councilman James P. O’Connor welcomed Ms. Williams to the community on behalf of the Town of Islip. A house blessing was performed by Dr. Tricia Daley-Bowles of Community Nazarene Church in Wyandanch.
Since its founding, Habitat Suffolk and its sponsors and volunteers have built more than 200
affordable homes for Long Island residents in need of a decent place to live.