Collins: “We had a fantastic turnout”
NEWBURGH – Frigid temps and gusty wind didn’t deter dozens
of volunteers from showing up at several sites in the City of Newburgh.
Many were doing their part to tear apart rundown residential structures
which will eventually become affordable housing.
Cathy Collins is executive director for Habitat for Humanity of Greater
Newburgh.
“We had a fantastic turnout,” Collins said. “There’s
about 65 people here on South Miller. There’s been about another
ten that are back at our headquarters working on various things. And then,
there’s also some kids who have been building birdhouses. So all
told, we have about 85 people.”
Among them, Kevin Jacobson, an environmental studies teacher at Storm
King School, a few miles south of Newburgh. He had a simple reason for
being there.
“Because our students inspire me to keep pushing myself and doing
our best in the community,” Jacobson said, noting that several students
accompanied him for the day.
The 24 South Miller Street property is one of several on that block that
are being revived.
Collins said the end result will enhance the entire neighborhood.
“In very short order, this whole block will become a very vibrant
and healthy neighborhood that will contribute to the building of community
in this City of Newburgh.”
Collins said it is a partnership with the City, the Land Bank and RUPCO,
the Kingston-based provider of and advocate for quality, affordable housing.
The need for volunteers is not just a one-day-a-year event. Anyone interested
in contributing time and skill can visit http://newburgh.volunteerhub.com/events/index
