Two Ocala women who each spent hundreds of hours volunteering to help build homes for others through Habitat for Humanity have both earned their own homes through the program.
Last week, the nonprofit organization held house blessing ceremonies for Jessica Rehak and Kerri Webb.
During the events, which were attended by volunteers and local businesses that contributed to the homes, both women were presented with keys to their new homes.
Rehak began volunteering for the program in June 2022. Over the past year and a half, she contributed over 320 sweat equity hours towards the organization.
Rehak’s home was created through funds from multiple fundraisers over the past 18 months, and donations from several businesses and local nonprofit organizations.
“This opportunity means the world to me. I am beyond blessed to own my own home and be on the road to success,” said Rehak about the accomplishment.
Webb and her daughter, Ariella, moved from their previous home in Massachusetts in 2020, leaving behind a “toxic and abusive situation.” Webb and her daughter had been staying with her parents when in July 2023, she decided to join Habitat for Humanity of Marion County.
Over the past year, Webb contributed 420 sweat equity hours to helping build homes for other and herself through the program.
“I am excited beyond words to have a new home for my daughter and me. It means the world to me to have a place to call our home, one we can feel secure in,” said Webb of the accomplishment.
Similarly, Webb’s home was made possible through multiple donations from local businesses and nonprofit organizations.
For more information on the nonprofit organization, or to find out how to donate or get involved, visit the Habitat for Humanity of Marion County online.
