GMHfH Partner Families at the Ground Breaking.

The Old Lantern generously donated their facility for the festivities, setting the tone for the welcoming of few neighbors. Models of the three houses were on display as music from Dr. Jazz & the Dixie Hot Shots entertained the picnicking guests and ceremonial shovels were tied with green ribbons. At 6:45, the guests were invited across the street to the site of the new homes. A benediction was offered and Rev. Susan Cooke Kittredge spoke to suggest that this not be the breaking of ground, but rather the turning of the earth to represent the turning of a new chapter in the lives of the three families who will live in these homes.

Amidst smiles, tears, and cheers, shovels were dug into the ground and a dark, rich soil turned over. supporters of all ages dug in, representing a new community of neighbors coming together to support Habitat and welcome the new families to town. One partner family, the Palmers, received their first  housewarming gift that night – a shovel given to Katie Palmer by her parents to begin this journey of building and homeownership.

Everyone got in on the chance to break ground!