Sailors from littoral combat ship USS Independence (LCS 2) volunteered to take up hard hats, hammers and nails with Habitat for Humanity, April 3.
A team of seven Independence Sailors and two Habitat for Humanity construction supervisors performed frame work and exterior construction on two houses that are being constructed for local families in need.
“A lot of the homes they build are with help from volunteers,” said Engineman 1st Class Richard Romero . “It feels good to come out here and lend a hand.”
The mission of Jacksonville Habitat for Humanity, known as Beach Habitat, is to eliminate substandard housing in the Jacksonville Beaches. In addition to building and rehabilitating affordable homes for qualified families in need at no profit, they also guide families through home ownership and provide educational opportunities.
“ Habitat for Humanity in general is a non-profit organization, ” said Jacob Williams , Habitat for Humanity construction supervisor. “Our main goal is to build affordable housing for people in need within the local community.”
This was the first of a two-day community service project with Habitat for Humanity. Independence Sailors took this opportunity to get involved in the local community before the ship departs for its homeport of San Diego early April.
The homes being constructed can house up to four families and will be ready to live in as early as July 2012.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff , April 10, 2012;