United Way NSV came together with Habitat for Humanity WFC (Winchester-Frederick County) for Rock the Block on June 18th, 2016. This special event created by Habitat for Humanity WFC, impacted Winchester's historic North End neighborhood by protecting and enhancing eight Norris Village rental homes from damage, and also helped to provide an inviting and safe community aesthetic. Over 100 volunteers spruced up the outside of Habitat's Norris Village properties in the North End of Winchester by painting the houses, planting edible fruit bearing trees, shoveling mulch, installing sheds and rain barrels, and cleaning up debris. United Way NSV was proud to support Habitat for Humanity WFC in this project through a dedicated Impact Grant, assisting with funding for the supplies for the event.
In Winchester, one in five people live below the Federal Poverty Line. Although the city does not have marked line for low-income neighborhoods, that the North End is in need is evident by the percentage of children eligible for free or reduced lunch in the local schools (elementary - 74.7%, middle - 55.7%). Aside from the economic challenges of obtaining food, shelter, and health care, finding programs that provide aid can be a challenge unto itself. United Way is pleased to partner with Habitat for Humanity by revitalizing the North End in order to help address these challenges.
Young builders assisted with small building projects like benches and bird houses.
Other volunteers helped raise money with a lemonade stand.
Volunteers helped ready homes in the Norris Village area.
Matthew T. Peterson, Executive Director for Habitat For Humanity WTF, giving a pep talk to volunteers at the event.
