Kenosha chapter of Habitat for Humanity breaks ground



KENOSHA (WITI) -- Habitat for Humanity's new Kenosha chapter broke ground at a ceremony Saturday morning, September 7th at the location the Vega family hopes to have a new beginning.

"We've been through a lot of problems and situations in the past. Just being here right now is a great deal to us," said Jose Vega. "This is a life changing experience for us."

Habitat for Humanity volunteers handed Vega and his family of five the plans and sketches for their brand new home.

"They have to work on their house. They have to put in volunteer hours, also, so they don't get anything for free," explained Kerry Dietrich of Habitat for Humanity.

Dietrich says it's vital that the organization is now able to build decent, affordable homes in the Kenosha area.

"When we did the 'community needs' survey back in 2010, Kenosha County had the fastest growing poverty rate in the state of Wisconsin. So with the loss of jobs here, and with the economy the state that it's in, it's extremely important we have these homes. We're trying to get people out of substandard housing or paying way more than they can afford," said Dietrich.

Vega says Habitat for Humanity is doing more than just building a house -- they are creating a new sense of hope for his family and the community.

"Now that we get this second opportunity to provide a home for my kids, it's more than I ever thought, you know. I'm grateful this program, organization, came along. It's bringing a smile back to our family," said Vega.

Work is set to begin on the house Monday morning, September 9th.