Released: January 23, 2025
Delaware County, PA – Delaware County Council and members of County leadership, including Delaware County Office of Housing and Community Development (OHCD) Director Philip Welsh, and Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery and Delaware Counties (HFHMDC) CEO Keith Sterling, and other officials and members of the public gathered on January 23 to celebrate the enduring legacy of President Jimmy Carter, commemorating his profound commitment to affordable housing and community service.
Held the day after Martin Luther King Day, the event underscored Dr. King’s call to community service and highlighted the transformative power of service to the community. During the event held in the lobby of the Government Center, County and HFHMDC representatives spoke about President Carter’s legacy and the ongoing efforts of OHCD and Habitat for Humanity to address affordable housing. Attendees, including Media Borough Mayor Bob McMahon and Councilperson Joi Washington, District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer, County Controller Joanne Phillips, and Register of Wills Vincent Rongione, were then invited to sign their names and leave messages on an 8-foot freestanding door symbolizing the opportunities Carter created for others through his service.
President Carter, along with his wife Rosalynn, began volunteering with Habitat for Humanity in 1984, building and improving homes for families in need across the globe. Delaware County has embraced this vision of safe and stable housing as a fundamental right, partnering with HFHMDC to deliver critical housing programs.
Celebrating Local Efforts and Partnerships
Delaware County and Habitat began collaborating in 2020 when HFHMDC secured Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds to launch a critical home repair program. This partnership expanded in 2022 with additional County funding, stabilizing 20 households.
“President Carter’s legacy is a testament to the profound impact of service,” said Dr. Taylor. “His dedication to Habitat for Humanity and his tireless advocacy for affordable housing continues to inspire all of us. I’m especially proud of the work of our Office of Housing and Community Development and the incredible efforts of Habitat for Humanity to help families in Delaware County have safe and affordable homes.”
In 2023, the County reaffirmed its commitment by funding four new homeowner residences in Lansdowne. Additionally, HFHMDC was selected as the administrator of the County’s Whole Home Repair Program, supported by state and County funds, including a $2.7 million American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) contribution. This program aims to stabilize at least 120 households with essential health, safety, and accessibility repairs. Since its October 2023 launch, 19 rehabilitations have been completed, with 37 more underway.
“Safe and stable housing is the foundation for healthy families and vibrant communities,” said Philip Welsh, Director of the Delaware County Office of Housing and Community Development. “We are grateful for our partnership with Habitat for Humanity, whose efforts bring much-needed relief to homeowners and renters alike. Together, we’re building a stronger, more equitable Delaware County.”
Keith Sterling, Chief Executive Officer of HFHMDC, stated, “It is fitting that we are reflecting on the efforts of President Carter to advocate for affordable and attainable homes for historically disinvested communities, and his tireless service to others, especially right after MLK Day. Our partnership with the Delaware County Office of Housing and Community Development allows us the opportunity to help so many families have a decent place to call home.”
Delaware County’s initiatives align with President Carter’s belief that decent housing is a basic human right. The County looks forward to continuing its collaboration with Habitat for Humanity and honoring Carter’s vision of stronger, more equitable communities.
Lead Abatement and Housing Initiatives
Delaware County also recognizes the importance of addressing lead hazards. Through a recently completed HUD grant, the County abated lead hazards in 33 homes, benefitting 47 children under the age of six, including nine with elevated blood lead levels. This work included $826,222 in HUD grant funds and $87,822 in County contributions. A new grant will expand these efforts to assist additional renters and homeowners.
Public Invitation and Memorial Display
The memorial honoring President Carter, which was on display over the past week in the Government Center Complex lobby is moving to One Montgomery Plaza in Norristown, where it will be available for public viewing through mid-February. The public is invited to visit and sign the memorial.
About Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery and Delaware Counties
Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery and Delaware Counties (HFHMDC) builds strength, stability, and self-reliance through housing. The organization is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves a decent place to live.
For more information, visit the Habitat website at www.habitatmontdelco.org.
For more information on the County’s Office of Housing and Community Development, visit https://delcopa.gov/hcd/index.html.