Local Habitat for Humanity breaks ground on new home in Aurora

An early rainstorm July 12 slowed but didn't halt Fox Valley Habitat for Humanity from launching a new home on Aurora's far east side.

Montgomery-based Habitat and Illinois Realtors Association of Springfield are teaming up to build a new four-bedroom, 1,150-square foot home with Aurora's Alma Gonzalez and her family at 1559 Solfisburg Ave. in Aurora.

The Rev. Jeff Barrett, Habitat executive director, said about 70 volunteers - in teams of about 15 each day - are expected to frame, roof and install siding, windows and doors at the house and detached garage. A ceremonial groundbreaking was held Saturday. Participants were Steve Saunders, Geneva Realtor; Al Green, Montgomery, construction supervisor; Alma Gonzalez, Aurora, future homeowner; Kim Pecylak, St. Charles, Habitat board of directors vice chair; and Zach Martel, Naperville, Habitat board chair.

Rev. Barrett said the Illinois Realtors Association has donated $80,000 to the Aurora project. The first of three the association plans to sponsor in Illinois during 2014.

The 1559 Solfisburg home will be the first of five houses Habitat plans for the street, calling the group Peter's Place subdivision.

Habitat plans to compete the subdivision by 2016.

Founded in 1989, Fox Valley Habitat is a Christian housing ministry that has completed 50 projects - new construction or renovations - in Aurora, Montgomery and North Aurora.

Volunteers began renovating a house at 512 Webster St. in Aurora several weeks ago. Completion scheduled for December.

Call Rev. Barrett at (630) 294-8575 for more information or to donate volunteer labor, funds or materials.