Local couple get Habitat home key

A DELIGHTED couple moved into their new home in Dublin 7 last month thanks to a non-profit organisation dedicated to providing affordable housing.

Habitat for Humanity Ireland and a team of volunteers helped renovate the previously derelict Dublin City Council house, which was the scene of anti-social behaviour and a local eyesore.

Now Lisa O’Brien and her partner, a couple of 12 years, have moved into the beautifully restored property.

The couple were given the keys to their home at a recent dedication ceremony attended by Lord Mayor of Dublin Críona Ní Dhálaigh and are paying a small mortgage that puts them off the Dublin City Council housing waiting list. 

Renovation work was completed with the support of Habitat for Humanity Ireland’s donors and volunteers, both individual and corporate, which helped keep the home affordable.

Lisa and her partner had worked hard for years in the hope of being able to buy a home of their own.

But with a lack of affordable houses in Dublin, a home seemed an impossible dream.

Before becoming Habitat homeowners, Lisa lived in her family home of seven, sharing a bedroom with two younger sisters

Meanwhile, her partner remained in his family home of five.

The situation was far from ideal as both homes lacked privacy, and were overcrowded.

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The Lord Mayor congratulated the couple as they finally moved into their new home together.

“I am delighted to be a part of this joyous ceremony and to celebrate with Lisa and her partner the new beginnings this home represents,” she said.

“Dedication and determination from Habitat for Humanity Ireland, Dublin City Council, volunteers, donors and the homeowner family have made this inspiring project a reality.

“Transforming a derelict house into a lifelong family home means Lisa and her partner finally have the space and security they need to start the next chapter of their lives.

“Collaborative projects like Habitat’s not only give a hand-up to a family, but they also help break down barriers between people from different backgrounds and can act as a catalyst for wider community regeneration.”

Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity Ireland, Vinnie Cunningham, described the home dedication ceremony as a celebration.

“It isn’t the end of a journey, but rather a solid start on a better journey,” he said.

“After a lot of hard work from everyone involved, it is wonderful to see Lisa and her partner move into their new home and begin building their future. We are grateful for the incredible ongoing support of our volunteers, donors and partners who have collaborated on this project, in particular Dublin City Council.

“In almost 40 years of helping families like Lisa and her partner to improve their housing situations, we at Habitat for Humanity have seen first-hand how critical housing is to families and to communities. It is about helping to give a hand-up to families to become self-sufficient.

“Once a family has a safe and decent home, they can begin planning for tomorrow.”

Further information, including details on how to apply to become a homeowner, can be found on the Habitat for Humanity Ireland website at www.habitatireland.ie or phone 01-5310033.

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