Link to YouTube video: Veterans Build Week Kick-Off | Transforming Lives in Perth Amboy
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PERTH AMBOY CELEBRATES VETERANS BUILD WEEK LAUNCH WITH PARTNER AND MORRIS HABITAT
PERTH AMBOY, NJ – On November 6, 2023, the City of Perth Amboy proudly launched Veterans Build Week, a key initiative to support those who have served in the military. Commencing with a ceremonial event at 11 AM, located at the intersecting properties of 363 Inslee St. and 364 Garretson Ave., the city, together with Morris Habitat for Humanity and the Perth Amboy Redevelopment Team for Neighborhood Enterprise and Revitalization (P.A.R.T.N.E.R.), began the construction of a new home for veteran Mylcaryz Moquete. This project marks the third joint venture between P.A.R.T.N.E.R and Morris Habitat for Humanity, with substantial financial backing, including a $334,166 grant from the HUD Home Investment Partnership Program and a generous $50,000 contribution from the Rotary Clubs of Sayreville and Old Bridge. The initiative showcases a united effort to honor veterans by securing one of the most fundamental needs—a place to call home.
Distinguished guests who attended the groundbreaking ceremony included New Jersey Legislative District 19 Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin, NJ State Sen. Joseph Vitale, Assemblywoman Yvonne Lopez, Mayor Helmin Caba, and Morris Habitat C.E.O. Liz DeCoursey.
“We owe a debt to our veterans that we’ll never be able to pay in full, but programs like this inspire all of us to keep trying,” said Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin. “The collaboration of PARTNER and Morris Habitat, along with the resources from HUD and Rotary, shows us what can be achieved when government and non-profits work together to benefit the community. The record of success in our community will be a model for efforts statewide to ensure adequate housing for our veterans.”
"We came together affirming the city’s commitment to honor every man and woman who has served, said Mayor Helmin J. Caba. “As we launched Veterans Week and laid down a home's foundation for former medic Mylcaryz Moquete, we pledged our gratitude for their service today and every day. It was more than just construction; it was our heartfelt thanks, building memories, and a tribute that will last. We started this week energized, ready to show our enduring appreciation for all veterans."
"Today (November 6), we embark on a journey that goes beyond bricks and mortar," said Morris Habitat CEO, Liz DeCoursey. "We come together to build more than houses. We are here to honor our veterans in a meaningful way and to join together in the spirit of community. Morris Habitat for Humanity has always been about building homes, but more importantly, it's about building hope, opportunity, and a brighter future for families and individuals."
Douglas G. Dzema, Executive Director of P.A.R.T.N.E.R., proudly reflected on the project: "Working alongside Morris Habitat for Humanity has been a privilege. Our partnership exemplifies our mutual commitment to honoring and supporting our veterans by providing housing and creating homes where memories and futures are forged."
"I'm overwhelmed with gratitude and excitement as I prepare to move into this new home,” said Mylcaryz Moquete. “It's an honor to be supported by many who go above and beyond to show appreciation for veterans like me. This isn't just a house; it's a symbol of love and respect from every volunteer who contributed. Thank you all for making this dream a reality."
As Giving Tuesday approaches November 28, the City of Perth Amboy and P.A.R.T.N.E.R. call on the community to show its spirit of giving. Contributions are welcomed via the Morris Habitat for Humanity's donation page, along with volunteer opportunities, emphasizing the transformative impact of community action in achieving the goal of providing safe, affordable housing to deserving families such as the Moquetes.
ABOUT THE CITY OF PERTH AMBOY
The historic city of Perth Amboy, Middlesex County, NJ, often dubbed "The City by the Bay," has played a pivotal role in American history with its rich 300-year-old maritime and industrial legacy. Located strategically between New York and Philadelphia, Perth Amboy remains an essential part of New Jersey's transportation network, linking major highways, railroads, and waterways, with Newark Liberty International Airport just a short drive away. With over 55,000 residents, Perth Amboy blends residential neighborhoods, commercial centers, and industrial districts along a prime waterfront serving international shipping. For more information, contact the [email protected].
ABOUT MORRIS HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
Morris Habitat for Humanity is part of a global, nonprofit housing organization, Habitat for Humanity International, committed to building homes, communities, and hope. The organization, which is one of the leading builders of affordable housing in New Jersey, serves 68 municipalities in Morris and Middlesex Counties and the Greater Plainfield area. Through volunteer labor and monetary donations and materials, Morris Habitat builds affordable new homes and provides home repair services to income eligible families and individuals. Since 1985, Morris Habitat has served nearly 1,000 families through building 188 local homes, preserving 431 homes for low-income and senior residents, and helping 373 families with housing solutions worldwide. The local affiliate organization has engaged more than 150,000 volunteers in its various programs. Morris Habitat also operates a successful ReStore home improvement and furnishings outlet in Randolph which has kept 17,588 tons of reusable materials out of landfills and funded 36 homes. For more information, visit MorrisHabitat.org or call 973-891-1934.
About P.A.R.T.N.E.R.
Founded by the Housing Authority of the City of Perth Amboy in 2003, P.A.R.T.N.E.R., a pivotal 501(c)(3) non-profit, has been a catalyst for community betterment dedicated to uplifting low to moderate-income households. Services that foster job readiness, career advancement, and affordable housing access have been central to P.A.R.T.N.E.R.'s mission to nurture economic empowerment. With its deep commitment to the community, P.A.R.T.N.E.R. has consistently supported educational advancement and championed financial literacy and independence programs. Its strategic partnerships underscore its commitment to building homes and enhancing educational opportunities, establishing P.A.R.T.N.E.R. as a critical player in Perth Amboy's social and economic advancement.
###