Rep. Sherrill Applauds HUD Healthy Homes Production Grant Funding Awarded to Morris Habitat for Humanity

Parsippany, NJ – Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) released the following statement after the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) announcement that Morris Habitat for Humanity will be awarded nearly $1.6 million as part of the Healthy Homes Production Grant Program.

Over two decades ago, HUD created the Healthy Homes Production Grant Program to address issues of diseases and injuries caused by health and other hazards in housing situations among children.  This program provides funding to non-profits, for-profit firms, state and local governments, and other entities to help local communities in need. The grant funding is intended to address unhealthy housing, support affordable housing efforts, and help children grow up in safe and healthy living environments.

“Morris Habitat for Humanity has been a pillar in the NJ-11 community for decades, making a life-changing difference for so many families facing housing insecurity or unsafe living conditions,” said Rep. Sherrill. “This well-deserved federal support will allow Morris Habitat to expand their efforts and help more children in need grow up in homes free of environmental, health, and safety concerns. With this grant, I am excited to continue partnering with and witness the incredible work Morris Habitat continues to do for our communities here in Northern New Jersey.”

“The Healthy Homes Production Grant will allow Morris Habitat to expand its Home Repair and Aging in Place Program to serve 84 low-income families with critical home repairs and safety modifications,” said Morris Habitat CEO, Blair Schleicher Wilson. “These repairs are crucial and will enable our most vulnerable residents, including children and the elderly, to live in healthy, hazard-free homes.”

“Morris Habitat will be performing lead paint evaluations, radon assessments, roof repairs and replacements, mobility adaptations and other repairs that will instill confidence for qualified homeowners in the communities we serve,” said Mark Odenwelder, Director of Program Development for Morris Habitat. “Additionally, we will be educating residents on the best ways to maintain and avoid creating new hazards while living in their homes.”

Morris Habitat for Humanity is part of a global, nonprofit housing organization committed to building homes, communities, and hope. Through volunteer labor and donations of money and materials, Morris Habitat builds new homes and provides home repair services to income-eligible families in Morris and Middlesex Counties as well as Fanwood, Plainfield, Scotch Plains, Green Brook, North Plainfield, and Watchung. Since 1985, Morris Habitat has served more than 650 households through home ownership opportunities, home preservation, and international home building programs. Proceeds from the ReStore have helped to fund construction while diverting nearly 14,000 tons of usable material from local landfills.  For more information, visit www.MorrisHabitat.org or call 973-891-1934.     

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