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News
Local Couple Get Habitat Home
A
delighted couple moved into their new home in Dublin 7 in December
thanks to a non-profit organisation dedicated to providing affordable
housing.
Habitat for Humanity Ireland and a team of volunteers helped renovate the
previously derelict Dublin City Council house, which was the scene of antisocial behaviour and a local eyesore.
Now Lisa O’Brien and her partner, a couple of 12 years, have moved into the
beautifully restored property.
The couple were given the keys to their home at a recent dedication
ceremony attended by Lord Mayor of Dublin Críona Ní Dhálaigh and are paying
a small mortgage that puts them off the Dublin City Council housing waiting
list.
Renovation work was completed with the support of Habitat for Humanity
Ireland’s donors and volunteers, both individual and corporate, which helped
keep the home affordable.
Lisa and her partner had worked hard for years in the hope of being able to
buy a home of their own. But with a lack of affordable houses in Dublin, a home
seemed an impossible dream. Before becoming Habitat homeowners, Lisa
lived in her family home of seven, sharing a bedroom with two younger sisters
Meanwhile, her partner remained in his family home of five. The situation
was far from ideal as both homes lacked privacy, and were overcrowded. The
Lord Mayor congratulated the couple as they finally moved into their new home
together.
“I am delighted to be a part of this joyous ceremony and to celebrate with
Lisa and her partner the new beginnings this home represents,” she said.
“Dedication and determination from Habitat for Humanity Ireland, Dublin
City Council, volunteers, donors and the homeowner family have made this
inspiring project a reality.
“Transforming a derelict house into a lifelong family home means Lisa and
her partner finally have the space and security they need to start the next
chapter of their lives.
“Collaborative projects like Habitat’s not only give a hand-up to a family, but
they also help break down barriers between people from different backgrounds
and can act as a catalyst for wider community regeneration.”
Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity Ireland, Vinnie Cunningham,
described the home dedication ceremony as a celebration.
“It isn’t the end of a journey, but rather a solid start on a better journey,” he
said.
“After a lot of hard work from everyone involved, it is wonderful to see Lisa
and her partner move into their new home and begin building their future.
We are grateful for the incredible ongoing support of our volunteers, donors
and partners who have collaborated on this project, in particular Dublin City
Council.
Home & Build Winter 2016
Winter 2016.indd 6
08/01/2016 4:28 p.m.