HUD Funding Helps At-Risk Teens Build A House

A beautiful three-bedroom house with a porch sits in a West Minquadale, Delaware neighborhood waiting for a first time homeowner to move in and make it a home. This modular home is on land purchased by the New Castle County Department of Community Services through HUD's Neighborhood Stabilization Program. HUD's HOME program funds were used to construct the home through the Challenge Program.

The program provides vocational training in construction for Delaware's at-risk youth. It's designed to assist them in earning a high school diploma or GED and with job placement.

"This is a great partnership with a worthy program that helps young people find their way," said County Executive Tom Gordon. "We have some bright, young people who just need a second chance."

Seventeen year old James Beavers with the Challenge Program said he and other youths helped to build the porch, the side door steps, the closets and install the windows. Beavers was all smiles offering tours of the house and explained that the experience has motivated him to pursue certification as an electrical engineer.

Church pews were used to create the wooden floors in the family room. The bedrooms have carpets that your feet sink into and ceiling fans to keep you cool on hot summer days and nights.

NCC Executive Tom Gordon, County Councilman Jea Street, Challenge Program Board Chairman Charlie Copeland, County Community Services General Manager Sophia Hanson and the Challenge Program youth in front of the house.	Side view of house
View of Kitchen

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