Phase I COMPLETE!

The Romero family receive their key from Father 

Augustine Puchner on behalf of the Catholic 

Coalition.

With monthly build days, the Catholic Coalition was instrumental in building and dedicating homes to three hardworking families on Saturday, December 7, 2019.

The first Habitat home was built in the Richman neighborhood back in 2007. Since then, 14 more homes have been added to the neighborhood. With the 12-home development in the process, Richman is gradually becoming a robust Habitat community.

Father Augustine Puchner of Saint John the Baptist in Costa Mesa presented the Romero family with their key on behalf of the Catholic Coalition.

After working hard this past year to complete their sweat equity this past year, our families were buzzing with excitement at initially being able to move into their new homes. Unfortunately, one of our four homes remains vacant.

One of our applicants was laid off in the weeks leading up to Dedication Day and was unable to purchase a home at this time. Habitat OC CEO Sharon Ellis reassured everyone that the family is not forgotten; Habitat OC is working with the family to get them back on track.

The Nurhusen family cuts the ribbon to their new

home, ready for a new beginning. 

Today, we start a new life, a new beginning, a new fresh start. -Romero family

Having lived in a small apartment for years, the Romeros can relate to our missing family's struggle.

"The apartment that we lived in, we lived in for four years," the Romero son said. "I always wondered, 'When am I going to move? When am I going to invite my friends to visit?' Today, we start a new life, a new beginning, a new fresh start."

A new start was not the only new opportunity the families received that day.

"It's incredible to me, how many people, what a village it takes to make this kind of thing happen," Neighborhood Builder and President of the Auto Club of Southern California John Boyle said. "We thought helping you with mobility might be a very good thing to do today."

AAA generously donated a car to each of our families.

The Flores family with their refurbished car

donated by AAA.

"I'm super grateful that we're going to have great memories. We're going to have birthday celebrations, Thanksgiving dinners, Christmas," said the Romero daughter. "Maybe one day, I'll be able to bring my children here to grandparents' house!"