Rock the Block: 9/11 Day of Service
In conjunction with their annual “Rock the Block” event, a Habitat for Humanity chapter is hosting an event on September 11 as a day of service and remembrance to honor 9/11’s first responders, veterans, their families and those who went into service because of what happened on that day 20 years ago. The chapter wishes to repair and modify their homes, with the goal of helping keep them in place, preventing displacement and potential homelessness among those who have served our country.
Why It Matters
Modifications and repairs will include things such as roof and siding repair, entryway modification and handicap accessibility, water heater and furnace repair, and general lawn upkeep and beautification. These repairs not only keep these families in place, but also work to prevent homelessness at its source, rather than after it has occurred. It is not uncommon for HFH to see properties that have fallen into such disrepair that homeowners have started accruing fines from the city. Without HFH assistance, they may not be able to afford the fines and repairs, pushing them out of their homes and into the streets. By repairing their homes, new instances of homelessness are prevented.
The Impact
“I think everyone alive remembers where they were when 9/11 happened,” wrote project nominator and ‘Rock the Block’ event leader Megan Golike. “My family is very heavily involved in the military, and both of my parents were in the marine corps, so 9/11 hit me and my family very close to home. My husband chose to go into the military because of events like 9/11. I don’t think we should ever forget what happened on that day. So many have sacrificed so much for our country, including those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, and they deserve our honor and recognition. Since this year is the 20th anniversary, I wanted to do something special to honor the first responders, veterans, their families, and everyone who went into service because of what happened that day.”
My husband chose to go into the military because of events like 9/11. I don’t think we should ever forget what happened on that day.
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