‘This is heaven’ — Windsor families get new Habitat for Humanity homes

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Two families given keys to their homes by Habitat for Humanity in Windsor’s west end Saturday had similar messages — the houses are much more than homes, they’re about “hope and stability.” 

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“Thank you to habitat staffers and volunteers for their kind hearts,” said Ramazani Bwangyo, who will move into his new family home with Jeannette Angela and their five daughters.

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Habitat has “treated me with decency and respect,” he said during a dedication ceremony at Mackenzie Hall Cultural Centre. “This house is more than a house. This is heaven, a presentation of hope and evidence of the strength and strong community.” 

Muhammad Shafiq will soon move into his home with wife Attiya and their children Juveriya and Muhammad Ajmal, both attending nursing school at the University of Windsor. 

“You have given us more than just a home,” Shafiq said. “You have given us a hope, stability and place to truly call home. 

“There were times in our lives when we doubted this moment could ever come. You saw our potential when we were struggling to see it ourselves.

“This home is a reminder of the kindness that exists in this world. It’s a symbol of community, of what can happen when people come together to lift each other up. 

“You may not realize the impact of your generosity, but it has changed the trajectory of our lives forever. We will never forget this act of kindness and generosity.” 

The two homes are the 124th and 125th Habitat for Humanity Windsor-Essex has completed in the area, said director of operations Pamela Breault. The next home is planned for construction on Brock Street starting this month.

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Please enjoy them and live happily 

Society has the means to address poverty, said Fiona Coughlin, CEO for the Windsor-Essex chapter. 

“There’s nothing new about poverty,” Coughlin said. “What is new, however, is that we have the resources to get rid of it. Why should there be hunger and deprivation in any land, in any city, at any table, when man has the resources and the scientific know-how to provide all mankind with the basic necessities of life? 

“The time has come for an all-out war against poverty.” 

The Windsor-Essex chapter celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. Every dollar invested in a habitat home is a $4 return for the local economy, Coughlin said. 

“To all of the dignitaries here today, thank you for your commitment to addressing the housing crisis through partnership with Habitat for Humanity. Together, we restored affordable units across the region, turned vacant lots into vibrant homes and turned boarded-up eyesores into beautiful futures.” 

The organization next plans to assist with turning former Leamington District Secondary School into 300 ‘attainable’ homes. 

Brent Klundert, vice-president of BK Cornerstone Design-Build, which worked on the West Windsor homes, had some advice for the two families in their new houses. 

“You guys have absolutely fantastic houses,” Klundert said. “They’re built with love. Please enjoy them and live happily.” 

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