A wonderful time was had by all at the Habitat CFC Family Picnic on Wednesday, July 22. As the sun shone through the trees at Beardsley Park in Bridgeport, Habitat families, old and new, gathered together to celebrate homeownership and each other’s achievements.
Amid warm hugs as families reunited with Habitat CFC staff and friends they made along their homeownership journeys, everyone enjoyed delicious food prepared with love by Big L's Kitchen Catering.
Picnickers also feasted on pizza generously donated by The Original Vazzy’s, Italian ice donated by Micalizzi, and other delicious desserts the families brought to share. Beverages and picnic supplies were purchased with gift cards donated by Big Y and BJ’s. We are very grateful to all who donated to help make our event a memorable experience.
Children enjoyed games and face painting thanks to our wonderful volunteers and generous donations of games and toys from Oriental Trading Company. Meanwhile, everyone enjoyed music provided by talented volunteer DJ Joseph Colon.
With full bellies, everyone took a seat to enjoy the program. Valencia Goodridge, Habitat CFC Director of Family Services, gave a moving welcome speech and introduced Habitat CFC Executive Director, Ashley Volkens.
“At Habitat, we believe that everyone, every single person, deserves a place to call home. Our mission is to bring together people to build homes and communities of hope by partnering with families, volunteers, donors and community organizations, to create an opportunity for affordable homeownership. Together, that’s you and Habitat, we are transforming lives, strengthening communities and neighborhoods, and helping families like you build a brighter future for generations to come,” said Valencia Goodridge.
“Getting the opportunity to come here today and talk to the families is what we’re all about. It’s a good reminder that the house is the product we build, but the families are our purpose,” said Ashley Volkens.
Next, two families celebrated a very important milestone, paying off their mortgages, with a symbolic mortgage burning. Myriam Ramos and Sheila Boulware, Habitat CFC homeowners of about 30 years, shared personal stories about their journeys to homeownership, burned their mortgages amidst applause, and received quilts donated by the Connecticut Piecemakers Quilt Guild and framed certificates.
The mortgage burning ceremony was followed by a raffle drawing. 9 families were excited to win gorgeous quilts donated by the Connecticut Piecemakers Quilt Guild, destined to become family heirlooms.
As the evening drew to a close and parting hugs were exchanged, everyone present reflected warmly on the huge impact Habitat CFC has made on so many lives in Coastal Fairfield County.
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