Thieves have broken into the storage units containing all the tools and supplies necessary for the construction of houses by Habitat for Humanity DeKalb. The organization needs donations of cash and tools to continue its projects.
Those who wish to donate can do so at www.dekalbhabitat.org. The website has instructions for the donation of cash, lightly used tools, and other ways to help.
The range of tools was broad, from miter saws used by lead personnel, to small drills. Less expensive tools such as hammers were also taken. Twenty five hammers are needed to provide for the volunteers that typically come out on a given Saturday. That makes it even more challenging to replenish the tool supply, because of the sheer volume.
Fortunately, the series of break-ins did not prevent the Women Build Day sponsored by Lowes from proceeding, and it was very successful. The work involved demolition, landscape clearing, and site preparation, so work could continue. Fifteen volunteer women from all walks of life worked side by side taking the initial preparatory steps toward rehabilitating a foreclosed home. This home will eventually be sold to a family that has worked alongside the volunteers on their own home, and others’, to obtain the required 250 hours of sweat equity. However as work progresses on this house and when the next Habitat home is begun, more and more tools will be needed.
John Shaffer, Executive Director was reflective, “As discouraging as this is, we are a plucky affiliate. We have seen adversity, and we have overcome. Thanks to our many volunteers, our loyal supporters, and unbelievable sponsors, we will see this through. As is written in James 1:2-3 ‘Rejoice, even if you have a lot of trouble, You know that you learn to endure by having your faith tested.’ We have enjoyed the support of the DeKalb County community for 23 years. That community will not fail us now.”
