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The eBuilder
Issue 5, 2009
A new home for Trang and her family
I very recently joined the Habitat for Humanity Winnipeg team and in my first couple of weeks on the job, was fortunate to attend some new home dedications for the homes that were built in 2008. A dedication is when Habitat and our valued stakeholders, including sponsors, volunteers, and community partners, present the keys to the new Habitat homeowner family. Each dedication is very emotional and unique. I can’t think of a better way to be baptized into my new role at Habitat for Humanity Winnipeg. I feel truly blessed to be a part of this great organization, because I can see first hand how much a new home means to our partner families.
Don Krueger, the Chair of the 2008 Cycle of Hope Committee, presented
Trang and her youngest son Michael with
the keys to their new home.
Trang is a single mother of two boys ages 13 and 16. She moved to Canada in 1991 from Vietnam and is employed in the local garment industry. Prior to receiving the keys to her new home, the family of three were living with friends – all three were sharing one bedroom, and the bathroom was shared by all who lived in the house. The boys are excellent students and were studying in a cramped, noisy basement – not ideal conditions. Prior to this living arrangement, the family was living in an apartment that had insect infestations and plumbing that didn’t work.
Trang is a very special woman. Her employers, who attended the dedication, have great respect for Trang as an individual, and as an employee. They have become great friends, and have supported Trang in her involvement with Habitat and her need to meet the sweat equity/volunteer requirements of our housing program.
Trang has also developed a special bond with Habitat staff and volunteers. She is so kind hearted and generous, she would often bring home cooked meals to show her thanks. Her home was built with funds raised from the Habitat for Humanity Winnipeg Cycle of Hope. The 2008 Cycle of Hope involved 45 riders who cycled for two weeks from St Croix Falls, WI to arrive at the build site of Trang’s new home. Each cyclist must pay a $400 registration fee, and then raise a minimum of $2,500 in order to participate in the ride. These wonderful volunteers raised $142,190.00 in 2008, enough to build Trang her home. As a welcome to the riders, and to show her appreciation, Trang personally cooked and prepared a delicious spread of spring rolls, and other Vietnamese specialties.
Cycle of Hope cyclists returning from their two week adventure.
It was heart-warming to see so many of the Cycle of Hope participants attend the dedication. The event allowed the riders to reconnect with Trang and see how truly appreciative she is for her new home.
Written by Kim Wilson
Director, Fund Development
Habitat for Humanity Winnipeg
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