Lowell, MA – Dozens of local dignitaries, volunteers and families gathered for the dedication ceremony of 53-55 Rock Street in Lowell on April 10, 2014. A ground breaking ceremony followed at 133-135 Willie Street. Nadene Jordan and Valene Hebert are the proud owners of the new homes on Rock Street.
Nadine Jordan’s life changed for the worst five years ago when she lost her job and trying to raise three boys on unemployment was tough. During that same time her son, Darren, who was 11 years old at the time, was hit by a car and his left leg and arm were broken. He has since healed but Nadine remembers climbing up flights of stairs in the apartment building, helping her son who was about the same size as her and knowing she had to find a way to keep going. Then two years ago things started to look up. Nadine found a job but still didn’t make enough to afford to buy a house. It was at this time she heard about Habitat and applied. Jordan said, “It was so uplifting to help build something myself and I am thankful to everyone who volunteered and made this possible for my family.”
Valene Hebert said, “Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would own a home. I am overjoyed to hear my children say they have a real home now.” Hebert said she came from a low income family and her family always rented. When she married, they talked about owning a house. But, after her divorce, that dream simply vanished. Now with 4 children, a new partner, and continuing on with her education, her dream has come true.
Sixty highly-skilled IBEW Local 103 members volunteered to provide quality electrical work in the new homes. Sullivan McLaughlin of Dorchester donated all the electrical supplies. Business Agent Louis Antonellis said, “IBEW Local 103 is proud to support Habitat for Humanity of Greater Lowell helping families see their dreams come true of owning their own home. “
Brenda Gould, Executive Director, Habitat For Humanity of Greater Lowell said, “We are thankful to all the volunteers including IBEW Local 103. Whenever we need anything, IBEW Local 103 is here from start to finish and we can depend on them to get the work done. It has been a great experience working with them for six years now.”
Families of Rock Street handed over the shovels to the Bullard and Bamunoba families to break ground for what will be new homes for both families on 137 Willie Street in Lowell.
The Bamanuba family lived in a refugee camp for 6 years in Uganda and was rescued by the United Nations before living in Lowell. They currently reside in a small apartment in Lowell. Kabagambe Bamunoba said, “We are so thankful for this opportunity and look forward to our new home.”
