Reaching New Heights: Terex Corporation to Present Generous Genie® Telehandler Donation to Habitat for Humanity of Coastal Fairfield County

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
February 6, 2025

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Josue Jorge, Director of Communications 
475-422-4444
jjorge@habitatcfc.org

 

MEDIA ADVISORY

Reaching New Heights: Terex Corporation to Present Generous Genie® Telehandler Donation to Habitat for Humanity of Coastal Fairfield County

WHO:

  • Habitat for Humanity of Coastal Fairfield County leadership and volunteers
  • Representatives from Terex Corporation
  • Local officials and community supporters

WHAT: 
Terex Corporation is making a generous donation of a Genie® telehandler to Habitat for Humanity of Coastal Fairfield County. This essential piece of equipment will enhance Habitat CFC’s ability to safely transport and lift heavy building materials, improving efficiency on construction sites and helping to build more homes for families in need.

WHEN:
Monday, February 10, 2025 from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

WHERE:
Habitat for Humanity CFC Parking Lot
1785 Stratford Avenue
Stratford, CT 06615

WHY:
The donation of this telehandler will significantly support Habitat for Humanity’s mission to provide safe, affordable housing by streamlining construction efforts and reducing manual labor. This partnership highlights Terex Corporation’s commitment to the Terex Way Value of Citizenship, community engagement, and corporate social responsibility. Teams from Terex regularly participate in area Habitat for Humanity CFC builds.

Media Opportunities:

  • Remarks from Terex and Habitat for Humanity CFC representatives
  • Live demonstration of the telehandler in action
  • Photo and video opportunities with the donated equipment and staff

A Home of Their Own: How First-Generation Homeownership Shapes Generations

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The dream of owning a home is a cornerstone of the American Dream, symbolizing stability, prosperity, and upward mobility. For first-generation homeowners, this dream carries even greater significance. It represents a chance to break generational cycles, build wealth, and secure a brighter future for themselves and their families.

Breaking the Cycle
For many first-generation homeowners, purchasing a home is a radical departure from the experiences of their parents or grandparents. Perhaps their families have always rented, faced financial barriers to homeownership, or experienced the instability of frequent moves. By becoming the first in their family to own a home, these individuals are changing their lives and setting a new course for future generations.

Building Wealth and Security
Homeownership is one of the most effective ways to build wealth over time. As property values appreciate and mortgage balances decrease, homeowners accumulate equity. This equity can fund education, start a business, or provide a financial cushion for unexpected expenses. Additionally, owning a home can give a sense of security and stability, knowing there is a place to call your own, regardless of economic fluctuations.

A Legacy for the Future
First-generation homeowners often view their homes as an investment in their children’s future. They can provide a significant head start by passing down a home to the next generation. Children raised in stable home environments have better educational outcomes, higher earning potential, and greater overall well-being. Moreover, owning a home can instill a sense of responsibility and pride in future generations, encouraging them to strive for financial independence and homeownership.

Overcoming Obstacles
While the rewards of first-generation homeownership are substantial, the path to achieving this milestone is often fraught with challenges. Many first-generation homebuyers face unique obstacles, such as limited access to credit, lack of financial literacy, and systemic barriers that can make it challenging to save for a down payment or qualify for a mortgage. However, these challenges can be overcome with determination, education, and support.

A Bright Future
By becoming first-generation homeowners, individuals are transforming their lives and shaping their families’ trajectory for future generations. Through hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to financial literacy, the dream of homeownership can become a reality for all.

Homeownership isn’t just a dream; it’s a powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty and building a brighter future for yourself and your family.

 

Habitat for Humanity of Coastal Fairfield County mourns the death of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter

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For immediate release:
December 30, 2024

Contact:
Josue Jorge
Director of Communications
jjorge@habitatcfc.org

 

STRATFORD, CT—Habitat for Humanity of Coastal Fairfield County (Habitat CFC) joins the world in mourning the death of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and joins observances around the world to remember his life of service. He and Rosalynn Carter have served as Habitat for Humanity’s most famous volunteers over the 35 years they helped to build affordable housing with the organization.

Carolyn Vermont, CEO of Habitat CFC stated, “President Jimmy Carter’s legacy of compassion, service, and commitment to affordable housing will forever inspire us. Through his work with Habitat for Humanity, he touched countless lives, demonstrating his profound faith and steadfast dedication to helping others. A visionary leader and true humanitarian, his memory will guide us as we strive to build a better, more caring world. Rest peacefully, President Carter.”

“We are deeply saddened by President Carter’s passing, and our prayers are with the rest of the Carter family,” said Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity International. “President and Mrs. Carter began volunteering with Habitat for Humanity near their home in southwest Georgia, soon bringing worldwide attention to the need for decent and affordable housing. We are grateful for the incredible impact the Carters have had on Habitat and on the families who have benefited from their shining example. The Carters put Habitat for Humanity on the map, and their legacy will live on in every family we serve around the world.”

After leaving the White House, the Carters sought out meaningful ways to continue their commitment to social justice and basic human rights. They first volunteered with Habitat for Humanity in Americus, Georgia, near their home of Plains, in March 1984. Later that same year, the Carters joined Habitat volunteers in New York City’s Lower East Side to renovate an abandoned building in partnership with families in need of affordable housing. That trip marked Habitat for Humanity’s first Jimmy Carter Work Project (later renamed the Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project). Each year since then until 2019, the Carters volunteered with Habitat to build or improve houses alongside homeowners in communities across the United States and around the world. President Carter also served as a member of the organization’s board of directors from 1984-1987.

“I think every human being has within himself or herself a desire to reach out to others and to share some of our blessings with those who are in need,” President Carter has said. “What’s opened up that avenue for me and my wife and hundreds and thousands of others is Habitat for Humanity. It makes it easy for us to reach out and work side by side with the homeowner who’s never had a decent house, perhaps. I haven’t been on a Habitat project that I wasn’t thrilled and inspired, and wept.”

Over the last three decades, the Carter Work Project has touched lives around the world by inspiring more than 108,000 volunteers across the U.S. and in 14 countries to build, renovate and repair 4,447 Habitat homes. Since its founding in 1976, Habitat has served more than 62 million people around the world.

In 2016, Habitat named President and Mrs. Carter as the inaugural Habitat Humanitarians for their extraordinary dedication to service in alignment with Habitat’s vision of a world where everyone has a decent place to live.

Habitat for Humanity will be celebrating President Carter’s life of service with local observances. To learn more or to share a tribute, visit habitat.org.

Photos and videos of President and Mrs. Carter volunteering with Habitat for Humanity are available at habitat.ngo/cwpphotos.

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Celebrating National Homeownership Month: Building Strong Foundations for Communities

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As we embrace National Homeownership Month, we honor the fundamental role that owning a home play in shaping the fabric of our communities. Homeownership is not just about possessing property; it symbolizes stability, security, and a sense of belonging. The impact of owning a home extends far beyond individual families – it strengthens neighborhoods, boosts the economy, and fosters a sense of pride and responsibility. Did you know that 1 in 6 households in Connecticut spend more than half of their income on housing? Lower-income families are especially likely to have unaffordable housing costs, requiring more than 30% of their income. This is why Habitat for Humanity of Coastal Fairfield County is passionate about making homeownership achievable and affordable.

Homeownership’s contribution to community stability is one of the most significant aspects of homeownership. Homeowners tend to be more invested in their neighborhoods, leading to lower crime rates, increased civic engagement, and stronger social bonds. When individuals put down roots in a community, they are more likely to contribute positively to its growth and development, creating a ripple effect of prosperity. Habitat for Humanity of Coastal Fairfield County seeks a world in which everyone has a decent place to live and call home.

Moreover, homeownership is often the cornerstone of financial security for many families. It provides a valuable asset that can appreciate over time, serving as a nest egg for the future. Homeownership also offers a sense of control and autonomy, allowing individuals to customize their living spaces and create a sense of sanctuary in an ever-changing world.

National Homeownership Month serves as a reminder of the American Dream – the idea that with hard work and determination, everyone can own a piece of the land they call home. It is a celebration of resilience, perseverance, and the enduring spirit of community-building.

As we commemorate this month, let us reaffirm our commitment to supporting affordable homeownership opportunities for all individuals and families. Let us recognize the profound impact that owning a home can have on people’s lives and the vitality of our communities. Together, let us continue to build strong foundations that will stand the test of time.

Happy National Homeownership Month!

Eugene “Gene” Gaillard
Advancing Black Homeownership Program Manager
Habitat for Humanity of Coastal Fairfield County