For the second time in a week, a family received the gift of knowing they’ll spend Christmas in their own home.
Habitat for Humanity of Madison County dedicated a house in the 2100 block of Fletcher Street for Kyle Morgan and his daughter Kyla.
Last week Habitat for Humanity provided Kanique Boyd and her three children the keys to a house in the 1100 block of East 28th Street.
Morgan’s house was built by volunteers and students at Anderson Community School’s D26 Career Center. The students are currently working on a house in the 2100 block of Pearl Street.
“This will be my first Christmas in my own house,” Morgan said. “Hopefully I can invite my whole family over and enjoy it.”
He was planning to purchase a Christmas tree before the holiday.
“For the students to work on this house meant a lot to me,” Morgan said. “I work with youth a lot and I believe in them. It’s a beautiful thing that they helped me.”
Morgan said the process has taught him a lot, including a special meaning to have a place for his family to call home.
“I hoped this would be an opportunity for me,” he said. “It shows people that doing the right thing will pay off.”
Jan Miller, executive director of Habitat for Humanity, said the Anderson Community Development Department provided $75,000 toward construction costs. An additional donation was provided by Jay and Nancy Ricker.
Lelia Kelley, director of the Anderson Community Development Department, said the city had previously removed a blighted structure from the location.
She said Pathstone was building three houses adjacent to the Habit for Humanity house.
“We’re proud and happy for you,” Kelley said to Morgan.
Jason Neal, director of the ACS D26 Career Center, said he was thankful for the opportunities for the students to work on the house.
“This helps prepare students for the multiple facets of life,” he said. “It’s a great experience to learn a skilled trade.
“It also allows the students to learn about giving back to the community,” Neal added.
He said students in the vocational school have built several houses in the past.
“This was our first experience and we’re improving as we go,” Neal said. “This is a long-term commitment for the students and the community.”
Amy Jacobs, family coordinator with Habitat, said it was a journey that Morgan started on several years ago.
“There is nothing better than having a home,” she said. “We’re thrilled for the family.”
This article appeared in The Herald Bulletin.