Habitat Chatter

East Pasco Habitat is having a Charity Bicycle Ride in April

2008-01-27T15:04:00.000-08:00

Tune up your bicycles, wipe off the dust and get ready to ride! We are very fortunate to have Phil Heffler, a Board Member of Frederick, Maryland Habitat for Humanity, step forward to manage a Charity Bike Ride for EPHFH on Sunday, April 6th. Phil has been putting on a 2-day bike ride for Frederick Habitat for 8 years and has offered to come down to Florida (in the winter, of course) to help us have our inaugural bike ride.

However, The Ride for Humanity will be a fun family event and/or we have other choices of rides for the more avid bicyclists. The event begins and ends at The Dade City Business Center in Dade City. There will be a 10 mile "We Are Family" ride-cost is $10 per person or $20 per family--what a deal! Then there is "The Pink M&M's 30 Mile Tour"--perfect for the weekend warrior! Just the right amount of hills and distance. Join Wesley Chapel's Mothers & More as they take you on this great 30 mile adventure. $20 entrance fee. Last, but not least, "The San Antonio Cyclery" Metric Century 62.5 mile ride. See why all Florida travels to Pasco County to ride! Beautiful, rolling scenery, speedy downhills and challenging climbs await you. Two rest stops, full SAG support, t-shirt and lunch......all for only $20! A fabulous lunch and live music after your ride at The Dade City Business Center!

We are aware that some bicyclists would rather ride The Withlacoochee Trail and we will offer that option to for all 3 rides. This will not be on our printed application but it will certainly be available!

In addition to the entrance fee, all riders are asked to raise a minimum of $100 in pledges for East Pasco Habitat--but don't stop there! Prizes will be awarded to all cyclists who raise over $500! It's real easy to do with Kintera, Inc., our fundraising website. Pledges are just an email away! A link to the fund-raising system will be made available on this website....www.ephabitat.org

The "races" that EPHFH had been involved in for the past 2 years will still be happening on February 16 and 17 in Dade City but Habitat is not producing the event. We will, however, be receiving a donation from the races --that is very generous of the promoters and we thank them for that! Be sure to come out to Dade City and watch those races in February-- they are very exciting!

East Pasco Habitat is committed to providing affordable housing opportunities to deserving families in need. Habitat challenges individuals, churches, foundations and other groups to join in a partnership with low-income families to change the conditions in which they live. The key word is partnership, for this is not just another housing program. Instead, those who need the homes work together with many volunteers to build simple, decent houses that cost less because they are sold with a no-interest, no-profit mortgage. Your participation in The Ride for Humanity benefits our cause.

Please join us on April 6th--we will have great fun!

Cars for Homes

2007-12-21T07:03:00.001-08:00

As we strive to raise more awareness for EPHFH in the New Year, we are pleased to introduce our supporters to a wonderful Habitat for Humanity International Program- Cars for Homes.

Donate automobiles to help Habitat for Humanity build homes. Your car donation can help a family build a house, and the hope of a better life! Car, truck, boat or RV donations help Habitat for Humanity build houses in partnership with families in need of decent, affordable shelter. Donate a car, truck, boat, RV or other vehicle to Habitat's Cars for Homes™ vehicle donation program by calling 1-877-277-4344 or visiting www.carsforhomes.org as well as contacting your local EPHFH office at 352-567-1444.

We look forward to sharing more about this fantastic fundraising program in the New Year. Have a blessed holiday season....

The staff of East Pasco Habitat for Humanity

Habitat Rocks!

2007-11-23T08:28:00.000-08:00

November 17th had the sounds of the 50's coming from the fundraiser for EPHFH at The Dade City Business Center. Over 300 guests walked through the "door of caring"- a facade of a Habitat Home (created by Harold Wagner of Gator Transport & Setup Construction Division), to jump back in time to the 50's when the opportunity to have a Habitat Home wasn't possible. Marilyn Monroe, Al Nicholes (formerly of "The Platters) gave cameo performances; a show by "Second Wind"; and a roller skating demonstration by Skate World Skaters of Tampa; Silent & Live auctions- a very busy night of frivolity.

Money raised from the fundraiser will go directly to building more homes for families in need of a "hand up-not a hand out". EPHFH's 50th home is under construction and a celebration of 15 years and 50 homes will be happening in early 2008.

Habitat's Women Build Home is nearing completion and is scheduled to be dedicated on December 15th at 10:00 a.m..... just in time for Christmas! Great job, women volunteers and Natalie Sotomayor, Construction Contractor.

The continuing efforts of East Pasco Habitat for Humanity are made possible because of the volunteers and donations raised from events such and the "Rock N Roll Review" & Auction. New hope for the future continue to happen for families here in East Pasco County thanks to those who "care".

EPHFH has Moved

2007-10-29T05:58:00.000-07:00

East Pasco Habitat for Humanity has moved from the Historic R.R. Depot in Dade City to The Dade City Business Center. We love our new offices-- just moved this week! The Depot will become a Train Museum which will be enjoyed by all. It is such a lovely building with so much historical value that the transformation to a "tourism destination" will be the perfect usage for it. EPHFH is pleased to be a part of making the train destination happen for Dade City.

Come visit us at our new location: 15000 Citrus Country Drive in Dade City, Florida 33523. Our phone number and other information has remained the same. Be sure to stop in for a spell!

NEWS: TICKETS AND AUCTION DONATIONS for our upcoming "1950's Rock N Roll Review" and auction on November 17th! The time is drawing near.... if you haven't gotten your tickets or if you have something we can put into our auction, please let us hear from you. Lots of surprises in store for the event and it should be a blast! Great food, company and purpose-- don't miss out on a wonderful evening! Call the office for more information: (325)- 567-1444.

Women Build Begins

2007-10-19T05:37:00.001-07:00

Starting tomorrow, women from Pasco County and surrounding areas will be picking up their hammers and building a home! October 20th marks the beginning of Women Build 2007. The ceremony will start at 9:00am and will feature BUC cheerleaders and local women dignitaries.

Another highlight of the day is TomBoy Tools, who will be on site selling tools made especially for women. TomBoy Tools are designed to fit a woman's hand and include funky tools such as pink hammers!

It is not too late for you to join in on the rewarding fun. Registration packets will be available in the morning. We need all the help we can get in order to complete the home by EPHFH's goal of Christmas. "In Christ, all things are possible."

The job site is located behind the Dade City Church of God. You can get to the site by turning on Main Avenue from 21st Street. Davis Avenue will be closed for the day on Saturday. For more detailed directions and information, please contact the EPHFH at 352-567-1444.

Hope to see you there!

Habitat Breaks Ground on Davis and Main Avenues

2007-09-28T05:52:00.000-07:00

Patricia Pisa and her 3 daughters were the first to turn the spade of dirt for the two Groundbreakings held September 8 at property behind The Church of God on 21st Street in Dade City. Pisa's family and friends were present when the happy occasion took place. Her father, Robert Perry, assisted with the ceremony by offering the opening and closing prayers.

Manuel and Evelia Oliveras' home "backs" up to the Pisa home. They were very pleased to break ground for their home at the same time as their "neighbor". An emotion-filled response from Manuel was indicative of how much the opportunity to become a homeowner means to the Oliveras family.

Both families have put in their sweat equity hours to qualify for their homes and are anxious to complete the building portion. All in all, it was a touching family occasion and the start of a brighter future for the Pisa and Oliveras families.

Making Every CAN Count

2007-08-30T09:30:00.000-07:00

Cans for Habitat is a national recycling partnership between the Aluminum Can Association and Habitat for Humanity. Aluminum cans are recycled by and for participating affiliates across the country. The money earned goes directly to build Habitat homes.

Aluminum cans are worth about 2 cents each, and the average person consumes more than a can a day. If only one percent of the aluminum cans recycled each year in the East Pasco area were designated to East Pasco Habitat for Humanity, our Habitat affiliate would be able to build at least one more Habitat home!

Matt Mooney of Lake Jovita knows what a difference the Cans for Habitat can make! The son of Wayne and Jane Mooney, Matt has been collecting cans for EPHFH for some time now. As of June 1, 2007 Matt has collected 227,553 cans!

Matt set a goal to collect 320,000 aluminum cans by December 31, 2007. He set this goal because proceeds from 320,000 cans (10,000 pounds) are enough to pay for framing a new Habitat home.

Help Matt reach his December goal by contacting him at 352-588-2654. He will arrange for pick up of your recycled cans. You may also drop off the donation to 33930 Americana Avenue in Lake Jovita.

All proceeds from Matt's recycling efforts go to East Pasco Habitat for Humanity. Through August 1, he has raised $4,212. Way to go, Matt!

Thank you to all our recycling partners! Together we can make a difference in the lives of others.

Habitat Receives Grant from Wachovia Foundation

2007-08-24T14:27:00.000-07:00

Connie Smith, Community Affairs Manager of The Wachovia Foundation, was the bearer of the good news that East Pasco Habitat for Humanity was receiving a grant for their program. They were very pleased to present John J. Finnerty, CEO and Karen Streaker, Director of Development for East Pasco Habitat for Humanity with a check in the amount of $7,500 to assist with the "Foundations for a Healthy Life."

The Wachovia funds are underwriting physical foundations for two homes to be constructed in the fall at property located in Dade City. A total of 10 homes are being built in the next year by Habitat.

Habitat for Humanity is a "hand-up not a hand-out" and their mission is to help eliminate sub-standard housing in East Pasco County. Every day, hundreds of low-income families battle for survival, not only facing the plight of poverty itself but also the anguish of watching their children suffer in deplorable living conditions. With the help of businesses, foundations such as The Wachovia Foundation, and individuals, the work of Habitat is making a difference!

Show Your Support!

2007-08-17T17:00:00.000-07:00

There is lots of activity around the East Pasco Habitat for Humanity office these days!

Staff and Volunteers have been busy with three recent home dedications in July, sponsored by Mr. & Mrs. Mel Case, Mr. & Mrs. James Zehnder, and Mrs. Doris Wells/The A.P. Phillips Foundation in memory of Mr. Maxwell Wells, Jr.

Both "Dining Out for Habitat" dates have passed and were very successful! Thank you to the participating area restaurants and their patrons.

The upcoming Women Build/Men Bake Event is fast approaching. Tickets are for sale at $10.00 each, with 150 tickets available for sale..... better get yours fast! The night is sure to spark some laughs with the Men's Bake Sale Auction and the exciting games of Wine Toss. Mark your calendar for September 21st at 6pm located at Dade City Garden Club. You don't want to miss it!

The PR Committee is already Rockin and a Rollin' with plans for the November 17th fundraising event, 1950's Rock N' Roll Review. Auction items are needed for both a live and silent/Chinese auction. The event will feature a live band, and catered food by Bennedetto's. Tickets will be on sale soon.....

There are many more projects in the works for EPHFH, including a spring Volunteer Appreciation Event. If you would like to make a donation, purchase tickets, and/or learn more about the upcoming events, please contact our office at 352-567-1444 or visit our website at http://www.ephabitat.org/

Dining Out for Habitat & Men's Bake Sale

2007-08-03T08:18:00.000-07:00

Our second Dining Out for Habitat is approaching quickly. On August 8th you and your family can take a break from eating at home and visit one of the following participating Dade City restaurants:

Lunch on Limoges
Tropical Breeze Cafe
Garden Delights Cafe
Beef O Brady's in Dade City
American Eagle/Great Eats An'Tiques
Kafe Kokopelli
Olga's Bakery & Deli
The Coffee Mug

The above participating restaurants are generously contributing 10% to East Pasco Habitat for Humanity on August 8th! The proceeds will go towards building decent homes for families in need in East Pasco County.

Save The Date!

Join EPHFH on September 21st for the Women Build/Men Bake Event. This fabulous and unique Women Build fundraiser will be held at the Dade City Garden Club, with the bake sale being led by Wilton Simpson. For more information, please contact our office at 352-567-1444.

Men with Aprons, Women with Hammers

2007-07-27T14:09:00.001-07:00

Here's a challenge to all you men out there that don't feel women know their way around a tool shed!

East Pasco Habitat for Humanity and the Women Build 2007 Committee challenge you to wear an apron and whip up some baked goods for the "Women Build/Men Bake" wine & cheese fundraiser on September 21st.

As a way to raise awareness of Women Build 2007, EPHFH is hosting the fundraiser- complete with an auction of selected baked goods from our "men with aprons" team. The team consists of local men from the community, lead by Wilton Simpson, who are joining together to show their support by contributing the goodies.

For more information on the Women Build 2007, the Women Build/Men Bake fundraiser, or how to join the "men with aprons" bake team.... please contact the local EPHFH office at 352-567-1444.

What's New at the ReStore

2007-07-20T18:59:00.000-07:00

There is something COOL happening at the East Pasco Habitat for Humanity ReStore these days..... air conditioning! The air conditioning has been installed in the main store, providing a cool and comfortable shopping atmosphere on a hot, summer day.

The ReStore has been blessed once again with lots of generous donations, including Bassett sofas, wicker furniture, Lazy Boy chairs, office furniture, lighting, and much more. The store also has some of their new cabinets in stock, just in time for a summer home makeover.

The ReStore's Little Pink Playhouse raffle was a great success with the proceeds benefiting the Women Build 2007 in October. A big thanks to all those who supported the raffle.

The ReStore team has been busy making changes to the store, providing a great place to shop. Be sure to tell your friends and neighbors to stop in for some bargains!

The ReStore continues to pick up donations on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. Please call the store at 352-523-2020 to schedule a pick up of larger items. You may bring smaller donations directly to the store Monday through Saturday from 9am to 4pm.

Happy shopping from the team at the ReStore!

Eating Helps Habitat

2007-07-06T12:50:00.000-07:00

If eating out is something you and your family like to do, then mark Wednesday July 11th and Wednesday August 8th on your calendar to support East Pasco Habitat in their mission to eliminate substandard housing.

Nine local restaurants in Dade City and Zephyhrills are making a generous donation of 10% of their food sales on those dates to Habitat!

Support our mission by dining at the following restaurants for breakfast, lunch and/or dinner:
LUNCH ON LIMOGES, TROPICAL BREEZE CAFE, GARDEN DELIGHTS CAFE, BEEF O'BRADY'S-DADE CITY, GREAT EATS AN'TIQUES, KAFE KOKOPELLI, OLGA'S BAKERY & DELI, MANOLO'S PIZZERIA & RESTAURANT-ZEPHYRHILLS, AND THE COFFEE MUG

East Pasco County has 2500-3000 families living in poverty-level housing with approximately 8400 children who go to bed at night sleeping on the floor with faulty wiring and no indoor plumbing. Habitat for Humanity is dedicated to changing those numbers and to help families who qualify to pay the mortgage, have adequate and basic housing. With your help, we can make a difference- one house at a time!

Local Dentist Supports Recycling

2007-06-29T04:28:00.000-07:00

Local Dentist, Dr. Millie Patel's office has a brand new look on Meridian Avenue, and East Pasco Habitat for Humanity is receiving all the recyclable materials from her former office building! A demolition crew is ready to remove the original dental office building and Habitat is removing the "treasures" for resale at the Habitat ReStore location. No waste with this new addition to Dade City!

One item that will not be relocated to the ReStore are the concrete steps located at the old office building- they are being saved for Dr. George Carver and his family. Mrs. Carver and their children "signed" the steps years ago and they are being given to them for sentimental value.

Dr. Millie and Dr. Gary (Gaurang Namarati, DDS) are very excited about their new offices. Several water oaks had to be removed to enable the new structure to be built and unfortunately, the trees were dying from the inside out. Due to its ability to grow and reproduce quickly, the water oak is often the most abundant species of oak; however, the tree is relatively short-lived compared to other oaks and may only live 60 to 80 years. Tragedy has probably been averted with the removal of the damaged trees. New trees are being planted on the property to replace the ones removed.

The dental practice has been at that location since 2003 and employs 2 hygienist, as well as, 6 office staff. Thank you, Dr. Millie, for all you do for the community and for Habitat.

Cans for Habitat R.A.C.E. T.E.A.M. 2007

2007-06-22T12:13:00.000-07:00

Did you know that recycling one aluminum can equals one nail for an East Pasco Habitat for Humanity build? Currently, our Habitat affiliate has 21 Cottage Can Houses at 16 locations to provide the community a means to donate aluminum cans as a way to support our mission to eliminate poverty housing in East Pasco County.

Habitat not only recycles aluminum cans, but also cell phones & laser/jet ink cartridges. Each contribution is greatly appreciated. Smaller recycling boxes are available for your home, workplace, church or community by calling EPHFH Volunteer Coordinator, Janet Collura at 352-567-1444.

The Cans for Habitat Cottage Can Houses are located at the following 16 locations:

EPHFH Train Depot Office
EPHFH ReStore
Dade City- City Annex
San Antonio City Hall
Shepard of the Hills Lutheran Church
Pasco Hernando Community College
Trilby United Methodist Church Community Center
Tri-Community Fellowship
St. Joseph Catholic Church
Academy at the Farm
Church of the Living Word
Blanton United Methodist Church
Pasco Recycling
Century 21 Office in Lutz
Century 21 Office in Zephyrhills
Pasco County Fairgrounds (between fairgrounds and PHS tennis courts)

Cartridge Containers/Cans for Habitat cardboard containers are located at the following 33 locations:

Pasco Government Center Dade City: Tax Collector, Property Appraiser, Supervisor of Elections
Pasco Sheriff's Office- East Pasco Operations Center
Pasco County Government Data Center
Accent Marketing
The Harbor
Dade City Car Wash
Johnson, Auvil, Brock & Wilson
Saint Leo University Campus
Wesley Chapel High School
Benedictine Monastery (Sisters) Bishop Mclaughlin High School
Tampa Tribune office
Zephyrhills City Hall
Zephyrhills Maintenance Department
Central State Bank, Dade City
First National Bank of Pasco
San Antonio Boy's Village
Bank of America- Land O' Lakes
Bank of America- Dade City
McDonalds- Dade City
Tampa Bay Golf and Country Club
San Antonio Citizen's Federal Credit Union
Zephyrhills News
Olga's Bakery & Deli
The Coffee Mug
Pasco High School
Wachovia Bank- Dade City
Citrus Crysler
Hodges Family Funeral Home
PHCC
New Trilby Baptist Church
Solutions, Sunrise Domestic Violence Thrift Store
Pasco Middle School
Wadsworth Insurance

"Miss Ginny" hits the road

2007-06-15T16:30:00.000-07:00

There is a new attraction in Dade City that is turning heads! Brightly colored, old fashioned trolleys are taking visitors on a historic tour of downtown sites. The tour is the creation of Jim Guedry, owner of Citrus Country Groves, which is the site of the popular Citrus History Tour.

Though the idea for a downtown trolley started with East Pasco Habitat's very own Ginny Solberg. As past Director of Dade City Downtown Mainstreet, Ginny had utilized a trolley for the Country Christmas Stroll. It was well received by all in attendance. That was the moment when Ginny's idea for a trolley crystallized.

During a recent meeting held at the Dade City Business Center, Ginny suggested the idea for the trolley. It was an open meeting for people in town to give their thoughts on doing the "tours" in Dade City. She had researched the trolley and took that information to the meeting where she shared it with Mr. Guedry and Sean Ashburn, President of Downtown Mainstreet.

Ginny was thrilled that the first trolley has been named "Miss Ginny" and that she took an inaugural ride on the trolley this month after the group brought it to the Habitat office to show it to her.

What a great addition to our growing community and an honor to our very own "Miss Ginny"!

Mission Trip

2007-06-08T09:00:00.000-07:00

East Pasco Habitat for Humanity CEO, John Finnerty recently returned from a trip to Romania and Macedonia in support of the "Global Village" program with Habitat for Humanity International. He went to visit the sites where his build teams would be working in June and October.

*Picture shown of Petesi, Romania

He has returned to Romania this month where he is supervising a build team of 16 volunteers. In October, a build team of 12 volunteers will be on site in Macedonia. East Pasco Habitat for Humanity tithes for a "house for a house" with Macedonia- each time a house is built here, money is sent to Macedonia.

*Picture shown with CEO, John Finnerty and the Romanian couple receiving the Habitat Home.

We look forward to hearing about John's current trip and sharing the excitement with you! The upcoming July newsletter will feature an article and pictures of this awesome experience.

*Picture shown of build site in Romania

Quilt Gives Feeling of Comfort

2007-05-23T13:09:00.000-07:00

East Pasco Quilters are not new to providing a feeling of comfort to those in need. They have been donating their handmade quilts to various local organizations but felt their talents and quilts could signify a new beginning and sense of belonging for families moving into their own East Pasco Habitat Home. The most recent quilt was presented in April to Habitat homeowner Jennifer Timms.

Jennifer and her two sons moved into their new home in March. Unfortunately George Timms, Jennifer's husband, passed away just three days after their approval was in place. The new home is a blessing but bittersweet for the Timms family.

Habitat would like to thank the East Pasco Quilters and Florida Medical Clinic- Foundation of Caring for helping give the Timm's family a "hands up"! We look forward to working with you in the future.

If you would like to participate in Habitat's construction program, please visit our website at http://www.ephabitat.org/ or call our office at 352-567-1444. Together we can make a difference!

A Challenge to Women

2007-05-18T08:23:00.001-07:00

East Pasco Habitat for Humanity and Lowe's challenge women to actively address the problem of women & children living in substandard housing by hosting a "Women's Build"

Join us for the first Informational & Sign Up Meeting

WHEN:

Tuesday, June 26th at 7PM

WHERE:

Calvary Assembly of God gymnasium in Dade City

CONTACT:

Karen Streaker or Janet Collura at EPHFH 352-567-1444 for more information

Be a part of the solution- one house, one family at a time. Together we can make a difference!

Grant Writing Workshop

2007-05-10T13:20:00.000-07:00

Make sure to join us for an extraordinary Grant Writing Workshop!

WHEN: May 23rd from 9am to 4pm
WHERE: Dade City Woman's Club located at 37922 Palm Avenue in Dade City
COST: $50.00 per person -which includes lunch provided by EPHFH

Our speaker is highly skilled in the area of writing grants and looks forward to sharing insight with those in attendance.

To register for the workshop, please contact Karen Streaker, Dir. of Development and Public Relations, at 352-567-1444 or email at kstreaker-epascohh@earthlink.net

We hope you can join us!

Volunteer Opportunities

2007-05-03T18:18:00.002-07:00

Help us in giving a "hands-up" to those in need by becoming a Habitat for Humanity volunteer. Our office is in need for volunteers in the following categories:

CONSTRUCTION:
Building volunteers (with construction skills or willing to learn) are urgently needed Monday-Friday 8am to 3pm, Saturday 8am to noon. Volunteers should be available a minimum of 6 hours weekly. Please complete a Volunteer Registration and Waiver and bring a hat, sunscreen and closed, sturdy shoes when reporting to work. EPHFH will provide tools, equipment and supervision. If you prefer, you may bring your own tool belt and hand tools. We are almost wholly dependent on local volunteers this time of year. Reports to Michael Fremlin, Construction Supervisor.

FAMILY PARTNERS:
Volunteers needed to mentor, support and encourage new homeowners with various challenges. Volunteers should be prepared to initiate and continue regular contact with the homeowner. Commitment should be approximately one year from the date the new homeowner is selected. Time required will vary according to new homeowners' needs and volunteer's enthusiasm. Bilingual a plus. Reports to Mary Eversmann, Chair-Family Support Committee.

RECYCLING COLLECTOR:
Volunteers needed to collect recyclables including aluminum cans, inkjet cartridges and cell phones from various sites in Zephyrhills. Volunteer should own or have access to a small truck or SUV. Job requires approximately 2-4 days a month or more if volunteer wants to develop new sites. Volunteer can set his or her schedule. Reports to Janet Collura, Volunteer Coordinator.

ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT:
Volunteers needed to work in EPHFH Administrative Office at Dade City Train Depot. Hours available M-F 8:30am to 4:30pm. Volunteer should have good telephone skills, some computer knowledge, and be available at least 6 hours weekly. Volunteer will greet and direct visitors from the Reception Desk, answer telephones, prepare mass mailings, prepare recycling items for Federal Express pickup, help develop our mailing lists and data base, and assorted tasks as needed. We promise you will not be bored. Reports to Karen Streaker, Director of Development and Public Relations.

RE-STORE SUPPORT:
Volunteers needed to receive and prepare for re-sale donated items and to manage the inventory. Re-Store is open M-F 9am to 5pm, and Saturday 9am to 4pm. Great work environment. Bilingual is a plus. Reports to Henry Walls, Re-Store Manager.

Friday Happenings

2007-04-27T07:13:00.000-07:00

Hi Habitat friends!

Be sure to participate in our GEM of a fundraiser:

Bay Jewelry Company has graciously offered our affiliate the opportunity to raise 40% from all online jewelry sales generated through our website. You can visit the website at www.bayjewelrycompany.com/?ephabitatforhumanity and click on "contact us" to learn more....you can view the jewelry by clicking on the right side of the page. It's that simple! Be sure to read the feature story in this month's e-newsletter.

Be sure to mark your calendar for our May Grant Writing Workshop:

We will be hosting a Grant Writing Workshop during the second half of May (date to follow). Our speaker is gifted in the area of grants and we are eager to learn how to tap into the abundance of funding available to non-profits. We hope you can join us! Respond to info@ephabitat.org with questions or to register for the workshop.

Not receiving our e-newsletter? Be sure to visit our website and sign up! Don't be left out...

Happy Friday!!

Grant Writing Workshop

2007-04-21T19:01:00.000-07:00

Is your organization in need of funds? East Pasco Habitat for Humanity is hosting a grant writing workshop in Dade City at the end of May. The cost will be $50.00 per person, with lunch included.

There are a lot of funds out there for the asking. Find out how your organization can benefit!

Please respond to info@ephabitat.org if you are interested in registering for the workshop.

Blessings to you!

Making a Difference

2007-04-20T12:28:00.000-07:00

On April 9, 2007 Habitat Home recipient, Jennifer Timms, wrote a wonderful letter to the St. Petersburg Times thanking East Pasco Habitat for Humanity for their work. We at EPHFH feel honored to have made a difference in the lives of the Timms family, and the rest of our Habitat community.

The letter reads as follows:
On March 31, an event took place that will forever change the lives of my children and me. We received the keys to our own home through East Pasco Habitat for Humanity. In this time of Easter, when we talk about new beginnings and new life, it is completely appropriate that we are able to celebrate this holiday in our new home.

There are too many individuals to thank personally, and I would hate to leave anyone out. First and foremost, my sons and I would like to thank the staff members of East Pasco Habitat for Humanity. Without their vision, we would have not achieved our dream of home ownership. The countless hours they work raising funds and awareness of the need for affordable housing in our area is overwhelming. Everyone I have encountered through Habitat for Humanity genuinely cares about those in need. This is a first-class organization, with a staff to match. I need to thanks the numerous volunteers. I am in a state of admiration and absolute awe of the sacrifices these people have made for my family.

The care-a-vanners are simply wonderful. They travel around building houses for other families like ours. They don't do this for money or fame. It is simply out of love and their desire to help others.

I would also like to thank the community members who have helped us, including various businesses. I have learned how blessed we are. We have a wonderful support system and people who care about us.

I encourage others to donate to East Pasco Habitat for Humanity. The need for quality, affordable housing in this area far exceeds the resources of one organization. However, if other organizations and individuals came together and worked together, miracles could happen. Other families could experience the joy we have. It is an amazing feeling. - Jenny Timms, Dade City

A Trip Worth Taking

2007-04-13T04:54:00.000-07:00

John Finnerty, East Pasco Habitat for Humanity's CEO, is in Romania and Macedonia "checking out" what his build teams will be doing in June and October. As part of the "Global Village" program with Habitat International, John will be leading teams of 16 people from the USA to build homes in Pitest, Romania in June and 12 people for Skopje, Macedonia in October. He is accompanied on the "recon" trip by Jerry Rice.

EPHFH tithes "a house for a house" with Macedonia- each time an EPHFH home is built here, money is sent to build a home in Macedonia (the poorest country in Europe). Habitat for Humanity builds homes in over 100 countries and has Global Build Teams exchanging volunteers to facilitate the program. EPHFH recently hosted a team from Tokyo, Japan here in Dade City to work with local volunteers.

Stay tuned for more information!