Tree Planted and Ribbon Cut at New Habitat for Humanity Home

Written by Kristen Schmutz

Belden Communications News

The City of New Smyrna staff and Zone 4 City Commissioner Randy Hartman held a kick-off ceremony for a new Habitat for Humanity Single Family Home currently under construction off Howard Avenue in the City’s Historic Westside neighborhood.

The ceremony had attendees helping plant a tree and a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

According to a release, kicking off the ceremony was Southeast Volusia Habitat for Humanity Executive Director Mark Billings, following an invocation by Dr. Lionel Long and comments by Board Chair Regis Sloan and Construction Manager Ray Allnutt.

"As with everybody here, affordable housing is a passion of mine also," said Commissioner Hartman. "It all started many years ago when I was working for the Fire Department; were involved with Habitat for Humanity. I've been with Jack and Ralphie to Guatemala to build homes and schools. So, it's always been a passion of mine and it's always good to see a resident here who's going to be able to take that next step. My understanding is that she's part of our housing project and this will be her first home, so that's delightful for us and it should be for everybody here."

Future homeowner Janelle Figueroa had the final word.

"First, I just want to thank Habitat and everyone who was involved for blessing myself and my children with this wonderful opportunity," she said. "Without you guys, I don't know how much more I can say how grateful we are for this opportunity. It's been a long journey--we moved down here from PA in 2018. We came a long way and I appreciate every one. Thank you for this opportunity."