Lakisha Atkins (podium): “I would like to thank God
NEWBURGH – Just in time for the holiday season, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Newburgh, Saturday, dedicated its 95th home in the City of Newburgh, made with lumber from last year’s Rockefeller Center Christmas tree.
It is the fourth time that the organization has used donated lumber from the iconic tree, and dozens of donors and volunteers who contributed to the construction of the home were present as the home was dedicated to the family of Newburgh resident Lakisha Atkins.
Atkins expressed to the crowd how blessed she was for finally earning the right to own a home, a right she has been working hard for since a gunman tragically took the life of her husband.
She knows he would be proud of her accomplishment.
“He probably would be crying and overjoyed with happiness,” Atkinssaid. “He would give me all the credit for everything.”
Her son, Keshone Atkins, also had a chance to speak to the crowd of supporters. “I appreciate every single person that has worked on this house,” he said. “I would like to thank all of you for accomplishing something my mother has always wanted.”
The house was another home that was that was supported by the combined efforts of PresbyBuild, a coalition of local Presbyterian churches that sponsored the construction and dedication of this home to the Atkins family. The family took part in building the home as well, per Habitat for Humanity of Greater Newburgh’s mission to have families work toward their dream of owning their own home.
The dedication of Habitat Newburgh’s 95th home comes as a new executive director has stepped in. Matt Arbolino assumed the role in October from Cathy Collins, who stepped down in June after eight years with the organization.
Arbolino, who previously was the organization’s Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator, shared his excitement over his new leadership role.
“I’m still in a bit of disbelief to be working in the same capacity,” Arbolino said. “We’re trying to continue to make this a collaborative organization that works with the community.”
Habitat Newburgh has more to look forward to in the coming year. New homes are likely to emerge as the organization celebrates its 20th anniversary. Thus far, 114 families have partnered with the organization to build and buy their own homes.
