Page 5 - Aerotech News and Review, July 7 2017

HABITAT, from 3
ate, helped Johnson and others pour sidewalks. She also volunteers to build loft houses with her church, the Desert Vineyard Christian Fellowship in Lancaster, for families in Mexico. “Volunteer- ing to help build someone a home is such a great honor. Just by volunteering a few hours, you can really impact lives — it’s a very cool thing to be a part of.”
Veterans do not use their VA Loan benefits, but instead secure a first mortgage though Cal Vet and a second mortgage through Habitat for Humanity. Because of the volunteers and donations, a house is about half price for a veteran.
Homes are 100 percent solar powered, with tankless water heaters and no florescent lighting, which can trigger PTSD. The average electric bill is 97 cents per month and nobody’s electric bill has exceeded $6 per month, explained Donielle De Leon, director of Corporate and Community Engagement.
Families are also required to take 50 hours of financial literacy training. “It is great for first time homeowners because we can teach them how to budget and they know what to expect to make them successful homeowners,” said De Leon.
“Our military proudly serves to keep us safe. Along with organizations like Habitat for Human- ity, we are in turn trying to support our veterans and their families to help improve their lives,” said Theresa Garcia, Lockheed Martin commu- nity communications manager. “Plus, by doing this, we also encourage greater awareness and appreciation for our military among the civilian population.”
A ground breaking ceremony took place July 5 at 30043 Division Street in Palmdale, where 56 Habitat homes will be built.
Photograph by Linda KC Reynolds
Getting it done — Lockheed Martin employees mix cement and pour sidewalks to help veterans build 78 homes in Santa Clarita with Habitat for Humanity.
July 7, 2017
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