An outpouring of gratitude and blessings marked a recent ceremony in New Town as new homeowners, volunteers, supporters and Habitat for Humanity of Jacksonville (HabiJax) staff dedicated newly built homes, including the organization’s 2,000^th home.

The ceremony included a stirring hands-on blessing of the new home in New Town. The Raysor’s family home represented the dozen new homes dedicated at the recent ceremony. Photo by Stout Photography.

“We are proud that these new homes are continuing to help us meet our mission,” said Mary Kay O’Rourke, president and CEO of HabiJax. “Our mission is “Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope.””

The dedication included remarks by Jacksonville Director of Community Affairs Dr. Charles Moreland, Jacksonville City Council Member Garrett Dennis and Andre’a Raysor, a new homeowner.  Raysor’s new home was selected to represent the dozen new homes being dedicated as it is the 2,000^th home built by HabiJax.

Andre’a Raysor expresses his appreciation and delight at becoming a homeowner at a recent HabiJax Dedication Ceremony. Photo by Stout Photography.

The largest affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International in the U.S., HabiJax has provided housing services to more than 2,000 families since 1988.  In order to make a greater impact in Jacksonville neighborhoods, HabiJax has committed its experience, housing products and services to revitalizing the historic neighborhood of New Town and is a partner in the New Town Success Zone.

Mary Kay O’Rourke, executive director, HabijJax, congratulates Andre’a Raysor for becoming the 2,000^th family to be served by HabiJax. Photo by Stout Photography.

During its 28 years of building communities with its partners, HabiJax has improved the city of Jacksonville with high-quality affordable homes and enhanced neighborhoods, providing a better quality of life for homeowners and their children in five areas of the Urban Core of Jacksonville.

For more information about HabiJax or to learn about its mission, volunteer opportunities and more, visit www.HabiJax.org.