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85 · Friday, August 24, 2012 OAKVILLE BEAVER · www.insideHALTON.com Industry News Family gets `hand up' with Habitat for Humanity home A deserving Hamilton family received the keys and took ownership of the latest Habitat for Humanity Hamilton home, constructed by Homes by DeSantis on a lot donated by the City of Hamilton. Located on Comet Avenue along the beach strip this is the fourteenth family that Habitat Hamilton has started on the journey of homeownership and a healthier future for their children. Being the first builder in Hamilton to join with Habitat Hamilton to build a home, Gabriele DeSantis, President of Homes by DeSantis said, "It's a natural fit for my team members to give back and come together for the common cause of changing the lives of a Hamilton family." Built in less than 50 days, this project called upon more than just the generosity of DeSantis, it also drew on the strength of many of his trades and service providers. While the actual costs involved in building a home are substantial, the lot is also a major factor in an overall project. A vacant property provided by the City of Hamilton moved this new home project ahead. Paul Parker, Vice Chair of Habitat Hamilton recognized the leadership of both DeSantis and also city Councillor Chad Collins and stated that through the vision of these two the new homeowners and their five children are well on the way to a future that until today seemed to be a hope and a prayer. Michele Den Besten best summed up the day when she said, "From the bottom of our heart, thank you. You have made our children smile; you have given them a home, a future, a place to grow, to make memories, to become the people that they are meant to be." Hamilton's Social Planning and Research Council reported that an estimated 26 per cent of children under the age of 6 lived in strained economic conditions. It is recognized that homeownership is a vital tool in breaking the cycle of poverty that Habitat partner families break free from. Homeownership through a partnership with Habitat involves the partner families throughout the process. Once accepted the families are expected to contribute 500 hours in what is called "sweat equity" through building alongside other community members or involvement in other Habitat programs. Once the family is given the keys to their home they start to repay the mortgage held by Habitat, which is based on fair market value. This is why Habitat for Humanity's motto is give families a "Hand Up not a Hand Out". Habitat for Humanity Hamilton changes lives of families through the power of homeownership. A Christian based organization we engage volunteers in the building of homes, operating our ReStore and guiding the organization at a policy level. Since 1991 Habitat Hamilton Home builder Gabriel DeSantis hands over the keys to the new Habitat has changed the lives of 13 families, enabling dreams to for Humanity homeowners Michelle DenBestin who is surrounded by her become reality for the partner families in Hamilton. children and their cousin. ALWAYS HOME. EXECUTIVE TOWNHOMES VISIT US AT OUR NEW PRESENTATION CENTRE. ONLY A FEW TOWNHOMES REMAIN. Hwy. 5 (Dundas) Col. William Pkwy. Valleyridge Dr. OUR NEW PRESENTATION CENTRE 2492 Gateshead Common, off of Colonel William Pkwy. and Dundas St., Oakville 416.495.3563 Follow us on: PRESENTATION CENTRE Richview Blvd. N · Convenient living with spacious designs surrounded by open space, ranging from 2,307* to 2,906* sq. ft. · Live on the cusp of nature and Bronte Provincial Park in one of Oakville's most prestigious and desirable neighbourhoods · Discover luxurious features and finishes that elevate your lifestyle · Select lots backing onto lush greenspace · From the high $500,000's twitter@monarch_group Like us on: facebook/monarchcorp Bronte Rd. Ask about our exclusive feature home promo. $30,000 Design Studio Bonus** On select lots, for a limited time only. MONARCHGROUP.NET Prices, specifications and promos are subject to change without notice, and promotions are applicable to select lots only. Other promotional offers do not apply. **Extras noted above are as per plan and as specified by Vendor. Extras are to be chosen at Monarch's Homes Design Studio. *Square Footage includes finished space in lower level. Renderings are artist's concept and images are for mood and impression only. E.&O.E. August 2012. 18961