Thunder Bay, ON – December 12, 2024 – Habitat for Humanity Thunder Bay proudly marks a monumental achievement with the dedication of its 40th home to the Martin family. This milestone represents not just the completion of a home but the transformative power of affordable housing and the continued commitment of the Thunder Bay community to support local families in need.
At today’s Key Ceremony, Michael and Candis Martin, along with their four daughters—Shyann (13), Athena (11), Annabelle (10), and Rylee (6)—received the keys to their newly renovated, five-bedroom home. Once a century-old structure, the house has been expertly restored to meet modern standards, thanks to the generosity of local businesses, volunteers, and community partners.
This new home symbolizes a fresh start for the Martin family after enduring years of living in substandard, cold conditions. “I’ve always believed in helping others, and now, thanks to Habitat for Humanity and this incredible community, my family has been given that same helping hand,” said Michael Martin. “We’re so grateful for the chance to have a safe, warm place to call home finally. My daughters are especially excited to have their own rooms.”
The home, located in Thunder Bay’s East Village, features spacious living areas and energy-efficient upgrades, including new electrical wiring provided by Over-All Electric, R60 attic insulation from Thunder Bay Insulations, and new windows and doors supplied by Everlast Group of Companies. The labour for installing the windows, doors, siding, and exterior insulation was generously donated by SRS Windows & Doors. These renovations ensure the Martin family will enjoy a comfortable, low-maintenance home for years to come.
Lana Vukelic, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Thunder Bay, emphasized the project’s broader impact: “This Key Ceremony represents far more than a new house. It’s about providing a family with the stability and security they deserve while strengthening our community. The Martin family’s journey to homeownership reflects Habitat for Humanity’s core mission—to help families build strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable homeownership. We are deeply grateful to our donors, volunteers, and partners, whose generosity made this milestone possible.”
The dedication of Habitat for Humanity Thunder Bay’s 40th home powerfully reminds us of the ongoing need for affordable housing in our community. It also highlights the importance of local collaboration in creating lasting change. This project exemplifies the profound impact committed volunteers and generous donors can have on families in need, ensuring a brighter future for the Martin family and others in Thunder Bay.
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About Habitat for Humanity Thunder Bay
Habitat for Humanity Thunder Bay is dedicated to helping families build strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable homeownership. With the support of local businesses, volunteers, and community partners, Habitat for Humanity Thunder Bay continues to address the growing need for safe, decent, and affordable housing in our community.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Lana Vukelic
Chief Executive Officer
Habitat for Humanity Thunder Bay
Phone: (807) 345-5520
Email: ceo@habitattbay.com