Mount Olive Township is buzzing with excitement as a significant new affordable housing development officially broke ground at 23 Stonewald Court, Budd Lake. This pivotal project, spearheaded by the Greater Middlesex & Morris Habitat for Humanity (GMM Habitat), marks a crucial step forward in addressing the ongoing need for accessible housing solutions in our communities. The ceremony, held today, was graced by the presence of Morris County Commissioner Deputy Director Stephen Shaw and Mount Olive Mayor Joe Nicastro, both expressing their unwavering support for the initiative.
Deputy Director Shaw presented a special certificate of honor to Liz DeCoursey, CEO of GMM Habitat, acknowledging the organization’s remarkable 40th anniversary. This milestone celebrates four decades of dedicated service, transforming lives by building homes and fostering stronger communities throughout the region. The Deputy Director emphasized the profound impact of stable housing, drawing parallels to Abraham Lincoln’s timeless wisdom on the strength of a nation being reflected in its housing. He passionately stated, “It’s not just housing — it’s a home. It’s a foundation for that family’s future.” This sentiment perfectly encapsulates the spirit behind GMM Habitat’s mission and the broader vision for a more equitable New Jersey.
The collaborative spirit behind this project is truly commendable, with substantial financial backing from various sources. Morris County proudly committed $375,000 in federal funding through its Community Development Office, underscoring the county’s dedication to supporting vital community initiatives. Further bolstering the development are over $1.6 million from the New Jersey Affordable Housing Trust Fund, a generous $50,000 donation from the Catholic Daughters of the Americas, and a $10,000 contribution from New Jersey Natural Gas. Mount Olive Township has also played a significant role, contributing $750,000 and donating the land for this transformative project.
Since its inception in 1985, Morris Habitat has been a beacon of hope, diligently working to provide safe and affordable homes. Their impressive track record includes building or rehabilitating more than 200 homes locally, preserving 531 existing homes, and serving a staggering 1,100 families globally through various construction, rehabilitation, and repair programs. This unwavering commitment to improving housing conditions for those in need is a testament to their enduring legacy.
The Stonewald Court development will feature seven brand-new, ENERGY STAR-certified single-family homes, meticulously designed to be both environmentally friendly and cost-effective for their future residents. The homes will offer a mix of two, three, and four-bedroom layouts, catering to families of various sizes. A key aspect of this project is the inclusion of a deed restriction on each home, guaranteeing long-term affordability and ensuring these homes remain accessible for income-eligible families for generations to come.
With construction anticipated to be completed in 2026, the arrival of these new homes will undoubtedly bring renewed hope and stability to seven deserving families, offering them the foundation for a brighter future right here in Morris County. This project stands as a shining example of how community collaboration and dedicated effort can create lasting, positive change. For more on how organizations like GMM Habitat are making a difference, explore stories about The Humane State.
