After the application process, paperwork signing, and 400 hours of “sweat equity”, the Phillips and Armelin families were each welcomed to their new homes. Both families arrived in the Dallas area following the disaster of Hurricane Katrina. Having a place to call their own again is a dream come true.
Many friends, family and staff members of H.I.S. BridgeBuilders and Prestonwood Baptist Church came to Valentine Street in South Dallas on the morning of August 26, 2006 to dedicate these homes. Mr. Jones and Mr. Morris opened the event with a prayer of dedication. Symbolic gifts were then given to the families:
Bread – When we break bread and share in a meal, we are a part of a community that cares for one another. May you share many happy meals together in your home.
Cider – When we share in a glass, we celebrate the joy in our lives. May your home be filled with great joy and happiness.
Flowers – Flowers are God’s reminder of new life and growth. May you grow in spirit and love in your new home.
Bible – Christians are a people of the Bible. We believe that these words come from God to teach us, nurture us, challenge us, and provide us with words of grace and hope. May God be in your home.
Food Pantry – The North Texas Food Bank welcomes you to your new home with a starter kit of pantry items when you move in. Congratulations.
Tool Box – These tools are a gift from Dallas Habitat. We hope you will keep your home in good repair.
Keys – This is the key to your home. May these walls keep you safe, may the rooms be filled with happiness, and may the door be open to new friends and happy memories.
In closing, the Armelin family thanked God, their immediate family and family of faith. They also expressed gratitude to the men and women of Dallas Habitat, especially the caseworkers.
Ms. Phillips offered thanks to God, an uncle who welcomed them to Texas following the hurricane, her mother and the many helpful members of the Dallas Habitat team.