The reputation of Habitat for Humanity is on the line. I first read about this on conservative Michelle Malkin’s website yesterday. It seems that the residents of Fairway Oaks, located in northern Florida, got more than they bargained for from Habitat, an organization founded by former president Jimmy Carter. It was built on wasteland by 10,000 volunteers in a record 17-day “blitz” organized by the charity Habitat for Humanity. Eight years later it is better known for cockroaches, mildew and mysterious skin rashes.
A forthcoming legal battle over Fairway Oaks threatens the reputation of a charity envied for the calibre of its celebrity supporters, who range from Johnny Depp and Brad Pitt to Colin Firth, Christian Bale and Helena Bonham Carter.
The case could challenge the bedrock philosophy behind Habitat for Humanity, claiming that using volunteers, rather than professional builders, is causing as many problems as it solves.
April Charney, a lawyer representing many of the 85 homeowners in Fairway Oaks, said she had no problems taking on Habitat for Humanity, despite its status as a “darling of liberal social activists”. She said the charity should have told people that part of the estate had been built on a rubbish dump.
One man pulled up his floorboards to find rubbish 5ft deep under his kitchen. Other complaints include cracking walls and rotting door frames that let in rats and ants. Many residents have complained of mildew and mysterious skin rashes.
One resident said her children were suffering from skin complaints. “The intentions are good, but when the politicians and big-shot stars have left we’re stuck with the consequences. This house looks pretty but inside it either stinks or sweats,” she said. Source: UK Timesonline
Okay, this is very embarrassing. The organization has helped thousands of low-income people live the American Dream. The last thing they need is bad publicity.
Filed under: Cockroach infestation, Fairlawn Oaks, Florida, Habitat for Humanity, Lawsuit, Wasteland
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