CHESAPEAKE, Va. — Volunteers with Habitat for Humanity of South Hampton Roads are carving the foundation of a new home in Chesapeake.
“It’s a lot of hard work but very rewarding,” said volunteer Daniel Erb.
Erb is one of several volunteers nailing down each frame on Commerce Avenue. He’s volunteered for nearly 10 years and finds comfort in giving back to his community.
“What touches my heart is getting to see the family and the kids move into their home,” Erb said.
Now, the non-profit is honoring him and many other frontline workers like local law enforcement, military members and first responders. So-called "hero volunteers" – teams of military, police, fire, EMS, healthcare and essential workers — will help construct a home for a family of three.
“All the years I’ve supported and helped the U.S. Navy, I get a chance to help the community,” Erb said.
“As a veteran myself, we serve the country and when we retire or we get out of the military, we want to serve the community. It’s a natural transition,” said Habitat for Humanity of South Hampton Roads Executive Director Frank Hruska.
This home is going to a single mother and her two children.
“About 85% of the homeowners that we sell homes to are single mothers. Most of them have about two children,” Hruska said. “Besides the income, they wouldn’t qualify for a regular bank mortgage.”
Hruska said it’s all about supporting and helping your neighbors.
“It takes a community to have a community," Hruska said. "I know it sounds silly but if you don’t have a community, you won’t ever have one.”
Volunteers started working on this home about two weeks ago. They hope to have it finished for the family of three by June.
The organization does not give these houses away for free. Homeowners must have a steady job, the ability to pay a mortgage and good credit, as well as meet federal income guidelines and invest 200 hours of sweat equity on a build-site.