The Port of Hueneme gives back in partnership with Habitat for Humanity

The Port of Hueneme not only makes cargo move, they also take pride in giving back to the community. On Friday, April 13, 2018, the Port’s staff partnered with Habitat for Humanity in building six new homes in the La Colonia community of Oxnard. These new homes are a part of Habitat’s effort to further their vision of “a world where everyone has a decent place to live.”

Habitat partners with low income families across Ventura County to assist them in getting into an affordable home. By doing so, they aim to help these families achieve the structure and security that comes from having a safe and stable place to live. “It is the Port’s honor to be able to partner with such a compassionate organization to effect positive change in our community,” said Oxnard Harbor District Board President Mary Anne Rooney. “It is our top priority to serve the local constituents of our District, and I am grateful we were able to do so in this unique way.” To date, the Ventura County Habitat for Humanity chapter has completed 70 homes throughout the county.

Port staff rolled up their sleeves to swing hammers, lay roofing, install siding, cut materials and clean the job site at Friday’s outing. CEO & Port Director Kristin Decas said, “it’s a great day when we can connect with our community. Building these houses will impact the lives of these families for generations to come, and I commend the Port team for their part in this positive story.” The recipient families build sweat equity throughout the building of their homes by providing their own physical labor on the building site, donating time to work on other Habitat homes, and working in the Habitat for Humanity ReStores. ReStores are non-profit home improvement stores and donation centers that sell to the public. Proceeds are used to build more homes around the entire world. One way to support Habitat for Humanity’s efforts is to visit their local ReStore located at 1850 Eastman Ave. Oxnard, CA.

Left: CEO and Port Director Kristin Decas helps to put up siding on a residence.

Right: Port staff members Cam Spencer, Rob Waterlander, Roman Ojeda, and Chief Operations Officer Christina Birdsey.