LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commemorating the 30th Anniversary of Syracuse
Habitat for Humanity

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize that the
quality and character of life in the communities across New York State
are reflective of the concerned and dedicated efforts of those organiza-
tions and individuals who would devote themselves to the welfare of the
community and its citizenry; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commem-
orate the 30th Anniversary of Syracuse Habitat for Humanity; and
WHEREAS, For more than 30 years, Syracuse Habitat for Humanity has
been making a difference in the Central New York community; and
WHEREAS, Syracuse Habitat for Humanity is an affiliate of Habitat for
Humanity International, a non-profit ecumenical agency whose mission is
to eliminate substandard housing in the world; this worthy organization
works in partnership with people from all walks of life to create decent
housing and build strong communities; and
WHEREAS, Syracuse Habitat for Humanity was incorporated in 1984, and
completed its first house in 1986; with more than 60 new homes
constructed since its founding, the organization has played an important
role in making home ownership accessible to working families in need;
and
WHEREAS, Through volunteer labor and donations of money and materials,
Syracuse Habitat for Humanity homes are sold to partner families at no
profit and are financed with no interest, 30 year loans; homeowners
invest 300 volunteer "sweat equity hours" in labor, as well as provide a
$1,000.00 down payment; and
WHEREAS, Syracuse Habitat for Humanity fosters leadership, education
and economic self-sufficiency in their homeowners, of which 97% are
minorities and 80% are single mothers; 90% of the organization's home-
owner applicants are women; and
WHEREAS, In addition, Syracuse Habitat for Humanity has contributed
substantially to the economic vitality of the region; the homes: improve
property values and generate property tax revenues; support local busi-
nesses through the purchase of materials and the use of licensed
contractors; through the extra disposable income that homes provide
their owner, money is also redistributed throughout the local economy;
and
WHEREAS, In 2000 Syracuse Habitat for Humanity made a commitment to
the City of Syracuse Near Westside neighborhood and has since built 32
homes there, restoring the quality of life for that community, and
breaking the cycle of poverty for the homeowners; and
WHEREAS, In so effectively carrying out its mission, Syracuse Habitat
for Humanity has demonstrated the value of investing in New York State's
neighborhoods and citizens; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 30th Anniversary of Syracuse Habitat for Humanity; and
be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Syracuse Habitat for Humanity.