By: Eileen Oaks—
MUNCIE, IN—After months of putting in sweat equity hours, completing homeowner education classes, saving for down payment, and volunteering around the community, the Lyon’s family is finally moving into their new, built-for-them home.
The Greater Muncie Habitat for Humanity partners with local families, like the Lyons, who are interested in working with Habitat for Humanity to purchase a home with a no-profit, no-interest mortgage. Each Habitat home is a collaboration of volunteers contributing hundreds of labor hours, visionary donors providing essential funds, and our partner families, who invest their own sweat equity into providing a better future for their families. Each of these pieces is absolutely integral to turning ordinary houses into extraordinary Habitat Homes.
Photo by: Amanda Kishel
The dedication ceremony of a new home to the partner family is cause for great celebration. On prior events, Muncie Habitat hosted a small gathering of board members, volunteers, fellow families, and neighbors in the new home for an Open House, but due to the Covid-19 restrictions, these supporters were invited to join in a socially-distanced car parade to dedicate the home to the Lyons family!
Almost 25 parade participants met around the corner from the home for the beginning of the parade to welcome the family into their new home. A large box was available for participants to bring a card or note expressing well-wishes to Abigail, and her children, Hezekiah, Sala, and Joel.
“Each home we build and dedicate is a symbol of God’s love in action,” stated Muncie Habitat CEO,” Lindsey Arthur. “People from all walks of life coming together to focus on our shared belief— that housing is fundamental to a thriving family! The Lyons family is a beacon of hope and light in this neighborhood and we are thrilled be a small part of their family story.”
Another addition to the usual dedication was the book shelf filled with books, family activities and games featured on the front lawn.
“Family time and education in the safety and comfort of our homes was important to one of Habitat’s strongest advocates, and leaders, Pat Botts”, explained the letter presented to the Lyons family from The Muncie, Indiana Friends of Pat Botts. Botts served as the Board Chair for Habitat Muncie for many years, and is remembered as a strong ally in providing affordable housing opportunities for local families.
The event was documented beautifully by local photographer Amanda Kishel, of Kishel Photography, who graciously donated her time, and talents.
Since Muncie Habitat’s inception in 1986, their supporters, volunteers, and partner families, who have paid off their no-interest mortgages, have provided new and improved housing options to more than 220 families.
Anyone who would like to become involved with Muncie Habitat, is encouraged to reach out at info@munciehabitat.org! The organization is always looking for new volunteers, partner families, and ways to put generous funds into action for local families.
