Newburgh - For 16 years the Meade Family occupied the small third floor apartment on Lander Street. For much of that time, Judith, the mother of three teenaged children, hoped for a home to some day call her own. Saturday that dream became a reality, as she was handed the keys to her brand new residence at 14 East Parmenter Street in the City of Newburgh.
The Meade’s were informed of their house qualification by Newburgh’s Habitat for Humanity chapter a couple of years ago. Immediately upon receipt of the good news, Judith set out to meet the requirements, including a willingness to partner up and donate "sweat equity" to the Parameter residence. She wasn’t alone. Her children, Jahdeem, Cidra and Dondre chipped in to tally the required 250 hours. Joining the effort was a host of Habitat for Humanity volunteers, including an assortment of contractors, who transformed the previously existing "burnt out shell" of a building to a nine room, four bedroom home.
Habitat is a "hand up, not a hand out," as owners must provide an ability to afford the home, possess the financial need for a 0% 20 year mortgage, as well as the dedication to its hands-on completion. In the Meads’ case, Judith far exceeded the stipulated 250 hours, oftentimes found at the Parameter location directly following her demanding nursing shift. For the single mother of three, it was well worth it.
"This just feels wonderful today, said Judith, standing outside her 1500 square foot home on her porch, holding a Bible, a gift from one of her housing advocate partners. "With God all things are possible, and this just shows that."
Habitat at Newburgh has been a part of those housing possibilities for the last 10 years. It’s been a busy time for the popular Newburgh agency, as the Meads’ dedication was the second in just two weeks. Some previous Habitat at Newburgh homes can be found on Nickel, Liberty, Washington and South Streets. Soon Temple Street will be added to that list. On April 30 it will officially become an active site as a home. Built by BOCES students in Goshen, it will be delivered there for more work to commence. Yet another home will be erected on May 7 over at 152 Washington Street. Having the distinction of "Women Build," it will be entirely constructed by females, and is slated for ownership by a single mother.
In the meantime, there was cause for celebration at 14 East Parameter Street this past Saturday afternoon. As the sun peaked in and out and the forecasted rain managed to stay at bay, a smiling and grateful family of four City of Newburgh residents provided hope to a community.
"I love you all," said Judith’s eleventh grade son Dondre to a group of about 50 attendees at the dedication outside of the home.
"I can’t wait to move in" added his sister, eighth grader Cidra. "The first thing I want to do is have a sleepover with as many of my friends as I can."
Cidra will have that first slumber party opportunity in a couple of weeks. The family will be allowed to move in once the final technical touches are applied.
Habitat for Humanity is continually seeking volunteers to help make the dreams of safe, affordable housing come true for families like the Meads. To find out more about lending a hand or information on if you qualify for a Habitat Home, log on to habitatnewburgh.org or call 568-6035
