Two moms will get new homes this week thanks to the efforts of University Greeks and Habitat for Humanity.
Students went to work sawing and hammering wood, clambering up ladders and putting in elbow grease to construct two houses Saturday as part of the seventh annual “Greek Week” project.
After seven days of building and more than 1,000 student participants, they will construct the houses in the Gardere Lane area of Baton Rouge.
“I’m just excited that I have a new home,” said Laterica Seaberry, one of the new homeowners. “It’s such a blessing to be in this program.”
Seaberry has four children — three girls and one boy — and they will continue living in an apartment together until they move into their new four-bedroom, two-bathroom house.
Seaberry had to meet several requirements including hours of volunteering before she could qualify to apply for Habitat for Humanity.
“I’m so thankful for the Greeks sponsoring and supporting me,” Seaberry said.
Kashinda Joseph, mother of one girl, is the recipient of the second house. Joseph said the new home will give her daughter, 3-year-old Kylah, a chance to grow up in her own home. Joseph said she wants to surprise her daughter with a new puppy once the house is finished.
“Being able to give my daughter a new home and a big back yard — I’m glad she has that opportunity,” Joseph said. “That’s something I didn’t have growing up.”
  See more photos from the Habitat for Humanity build
 
Joseph said the area is exactly where she wanted to have a house. After finishing the two homes, there will be 53 Habitat for Humanity homes in the neighborhood, with 12 built by University Greek students.
Annemarie Martin, business management senior and president of the Greek board of directors, said so many students want to volunteer that there often isn’t enough space for everyone to work.
“You get to see homeowners out here working as well, and it’s rewarding to see,” Martin said.
Lynn Clark, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Baton Rouge, said the organization provides all the materials, including the lumber and the foundation slab, as well as the new homeowner.
Clark said University Greeks have raised more than $750,000 for Habitat for Humanity in their seven-year partnership.
“I’m overwhelmed by the maturity and compassion of all those involved,” Clark said.
 
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Contact Catherine Threlkeld at [email protected]