Community Helps Habitat For Humanity 'Rock The Block' In Mt. Holly

Press release from Habitat SCNJ:

Oct. 28, 2022

Habitat for Humanity of South Central New Jersey, Mt. Holly’s Neighborhood Preservation Program, and local volunteers set out to “Rock the Block” on Saturday, October 22, by repairing homes and connecting with neighbors in Mt. Holly.

Even Mayor Jones and Deputy Mayor Banks threw on tie-dyed tees and lent a hand repairing homes and cleaning up the neighborhood. In just one day, volunteers were able to complete six projects like clearing away debris, removing overgrown brush, mulching, painting, mending fences, and fixing porches. Bulk dumpsters were placed close by to help keep the projects moving along, while community members were encouraged to use them for their own cleanups and repairs.

“We are honored to have the opportunity to work alongside such incredible homeowners and local leaders, to uplift community voices, and to invest in neighborhoods that deserve a brush of kindness,” says Annie Fox, Chief Development Officer at Habitat SCNJ.

Habitat and Mt Holly have worked together through the Neighborhood Preservation Program, which focuses repair and revitalization efforts in a more narrowed scope than a county or region, like Habitat’s full service area. By working in a concentrated area, the organization has been able to build relationships with the residents, connect with other local organizations, and build impact beyond a painted front door. And the work truly is more than refreshing the façade of a home – it makes them safe, modern, efficient, and accessible for those living in it, and contributes to the stability of the community as a whole.

Over the last year, Habitat SCNJ has worked collaboratively with Mt. Holly NPP to bring seven home repairs to local residents throughout the historic areas of the Burlington County Seat. Habitat staff and volunteers have worked alongside trusted contractors to provide home improvements ranging from minor like power washing and new coats of paint, to porch repair and siding replacement, and even major repairs like new roof installments.

“We hope this event will not only make a difference in the lives of the homeowners and those apart of the event, but their friends, neighbors, and loved ones as well, to witness firsthand how people can come together and make such a difference in one day,” expressed Laura Van Booven, Habitat SCNJ’s Neighborhood Revitalization Manager.

Repairs weren’t the only thing taking place on Saturday either. The park on Chestnut St served as a neighborhood hub for the event and allowed plenty of space for a resource fair, take home crafts, and a friendly game of basketball. Residents spoke with representatives from local organizations, got their faces painted, received balloon animals, and enjoyed a lunch donated by Donkey’s Place.

Rock the Block was made possible thanks to the incredible support from the Mt Holly Neighborhood Preservation Program, Engage Church, Baratz & Associates, Archer & Greener, Partners for Kids and Families Inc, and Mental Mediator.

Be sure to connect with @HabitatSCNJ on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to see photos from the event. You can also visit www.HabitatSCNJ.org to learn more about Habitat’s services, active builds, and upcoming events.

This press release was produced by Habitat SCNJ. The views expressed here are the author's own.