Bathed in the warm embrace of the sun, which not only illuminated the world around us but also filled our hearts, family, friends, and CCHFH supporters came together on June 29th to commemorate a significant moment with the Long Family—marking their transition from partner family to homeowner.
Lachanda Long, approved in 2019, endured many years of unsafe living conditions and substandard housing and recalled the joyous moment she learned she and her daughter Niyunna were accepted into the program, but her dreams were quickly dashed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Construction was halted, the first building site was deemed unfit, material prices soared, and the dangers of gathering in large groups prevented volunteer labor. With no reprieve in sight, Lachanda remained steadfast, and some four years later, she and her daughter are now standing in their beautiful home.
As Lachanda and Niyunna stood side by side to embark on their new home ownership journey, several officials showed their support. Alabama State Senator Keith Kelly, Jacksonville Mayor Johnny Smith, and CCHFH Board members Jacksonville Councilwoman Sherry Laster and Jacksonville Chief of Police Marcus Wood, alongside dozens of other supporters, prayed for blessings of protection and prosperity.
CCHFH's former Executive Director, Ron Hindman, who was honored with a Square Foot Challenge, spoke about his longstanding connection with the organization, dating back to the early 1990s. Additionally, he expressed pride that the Challenge allowed him and his late wife, Darline, to make a positive impact on this family's life. Ron then showed his gratitude to his children for their gift of a beautiful wooden rocker, which he hopes will serve as a constant reminder for The Longs to enjoy comfort and peace in this home for generations to come.
In her closing remarks, Lachanda shared her gratitude to the City of Jacksonville, Publix, Grace Episcopal Church, Complete Construction, and all of those who supported the Ron and Darline Hindman Square Foot Challenge and the Mardi Gras Masquerade Ball. She closed with a statement that perfectly sums her journey over the past four years, "God might not do it when you want Him to, but He's always on time".
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