Rockland County Legislator John Murphy recognized Habitat for Humanity of Rockland and its volunteers for their ongoing involvement in the development of the Rockland Homes for Heroes (HFH) project in Tappan, NY.
Two local nonprofit organizations, Rockland Housing Action Coalition and Joseph’s Home, Inc., conceived the HFH project to provide permanent, supportive and affordable rental housing for homeless, service disabled veterans and their families in the two-four unit garden-style apartment buildings on Western Highway. HFH is located on the site of the former Camp Shanks, the largest WWII embarkation camp in the United States, processing Army and Air Corps troops that departed for Europe.
Habitat for Humanity of Rockland is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building homes for low income families and is an affiliate of the international organization. Since its inception in 1994, the local chapter has completed several projects in the County and is currently planning a project in the North Rockland area.
Legislator Murphy credited the volunteers from Habitat for Humanity of Rockland for the rehabilitation of the former Camp Shanks PX building into a community center for the residents. Murphy added, “The volunteers gather each Thursday despite weather conditions to work on the center which will provide the resident veterans and their families with a place to gather as well to host other veterans and organizations that provide supportive services.”
Sister Marie Buckley, President of the Rockland Chapter thanked Legislator Murphy and the Legislature for recognizing and supporting the local chapter. “We are part of the community,” said Sister Marie, “and enjoy the work we do.” Michael VerSchneider, the director of the chapter, thanked Legislator Murphy, who is President of Joseph’s Home, for allowing the chapter to partner in the project. Mr. VerSchneider introduced Ciara McCullagh, a representative of the student chapter of Habitat. “The student chapter is contributing to the HFH project as well as other county projects and travel during summer break to work on projects in other areas of the nation. We rely upon the participation of the youth chapter.”
Chairman of the Legislature Alden H. Wolfe presented a proclamation to designate March 16, 2015 in recognition of Habitat for Humanity of Rockland. Chairman Wolfe, who previously served as Vice President of the local chapter, said, “I know firsthand, just how committed this chapter is to provide affordable housing and the credible, painstaking steps taken to ensure decent housing for Rockland families. I am very proud of the good work and the dedication of the Rockland Chapter and its volunteers.”
