'Have Faith And Don't Give Up': South Jersey Man Gets Keys To Family's New Affordable Home

CINNAMINSON, NJ — A Cinnaminson family got a fresh start on Thursday with the help of Habitat for Humanity.

Robert, his partner Jessica, and their two children received the keys to a newly rehabilitated affordable home, marking the hard work and dedication of volunteers, donors, and other supporters.

The three-bed, two-bath home features a laundry room, energy-efficient appliances, a front porch, and a backyard.

The graduation to the new space followed ten years of living in a small two-bedroom apartment.

"While the Habitat journey begins with blueprints and months of 'sweat equity,' one of the most satisfying moments is the Home Dedication Ceremony," said Kim Plasket, Resource Engagement Specialist. "This day is full of smiles and happy tears...the true reward is witnessing a family trade housing instability for the lifelong security of a front door they finally own."

For Robert, "it is more than just moving into a house," he said. "It means having a place where my children can feel safe, grow, play, and have space to just be kids."

The Cinnaminson community and strong school system, he added, also give his special needs son a place to feel supported, understood, and able to grow.

Jessica and Robert met in a "Kohl's" 12 years ago, after they ran into each other while shopping, and his efforts to make her laugh won her over.

A new home and two kids later, the department store duo said they are grateful for their simple life and can't wait to take their kids to more parks in the area.

As far as food, however, they already have their favorites.

"Whistlers Inn for ribs and the pulled pork sandwich, and The Jug Handle Inn for Tony Bruno and garlic parm wings," Robert said, listing their familiar haunts.

Robert and Jessica applied to Habitat after meeting the homebuyer qualifications and were selected through a final lottery among other qualified applicants to have the chance to buy the property.

New keys in hand, they want others who may feel stuck in a similar situation to know that a new beginning is never too far away.

"Have faith and don't give up hope. Sometimes the process takes longer than you expect, but I believe God has a way of opening the right door at the right time," added Robert.

Habitat owners also partake in work directly at Habitat sites to learn the financial skills to obtain an affordable mortgage and buy a home.

All families buy homes with thirty-year mortgages and make monthly payments of no more than 30 percent of their household income.

The organization works year-round to not only provide affordable homes in South Jersey, but also to facilitate repairs on properties, such as roof replacements.

Habitat for Humanity of South Central New Jersey is an independent affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International. The group builds and repairs properties across five counties and has helped more than 1.6 million residents.

To learn about the application process, volunteer opportunities, or other ways to support their mission, visit the organization's website.

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