Two Families Celebrate as New Neighbors, Open the Doors to their Brand New, Energy Efficient, and Affordable Habitat Homes on the East End of Bridgeport, CT

 “I thank God everyday for this opportunity to finally own our own home. This is a huge step in the right path of our lives.”

BRIDGEPORT, CT – Habitat for Humanity of Coastal Fairfield County (Habitat CFC) is excited to announce the completion and dedication of two newly built, energy-efficient, and affordable Habitat homes. On October 26, 2024, Leslie Arrington, Wayne Mitchell, and their family, along with Olivene Blake and her children, will open the doors to their new homes at 1096-1102 Stratford Avenue on the East End of Bridgeport, CT for the first time.

The event marks the beginning of a new chapter for both families, made possible through their willingness to partner with Habitat CFC along with the hard work of volunteers and community support. Hundreds of volunteers from faith-based, corporate, and community groups contributed countless hours towards building the houses. A total of 600 partnership hours were completed between the two families as they helped build their own houses and contributed hours towards supporting construction of other Habitat build sites as well. Monetary donations were contributed by Payarc, Homeserve, JP Morgan Chase, ASML, Enterprise, Connecticut Housing Finance Authority, and individual donations from community members.
Habitat for Humanity CFC also extends a special thank you to Steven Finkelstein and Irving Cohen for donating the parcel of land.

Steven Finkelstein stated, “We are proud to offer this land as a foundation for two future homes, where families can build lives full of stability and hope. Partnering with Habitat for Humanity allows us to contribute to a greater cause, knowing that this piece of land will become a place where dreams of homeownership can come true, and communities can thrive.”

Carolyn Vermont, CEO of Habitat CFC, stated, “Our Home Dedications are a representation of the community coming together to address the affordable housing crisis that we face in Coastal Fairfield County. Making homeownership a reality for low-income working families through community driven support – that is our mission. We are so thankful for so many of our partners that come together to make it a reality.”

Each home is 1,456 square feet and both include four bedrooms and two bathrooms where the new homeowners and their families will build a bright future together. Learn more about each family here or visit habitatcfc.org/habitat-cfc-families.

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“I thank God everyday for this opportunity to finally own our own home. This is a huge step in the right path of our lives.” – Leslie Arrington

“Owning my own home will create financial stability, a sense of accomplishment, and family stability for my children and me. It will have a major impact on my children’s lives.” – Olivene Blake