Housing America meets 1,000th milestone

Housing American Corp. has brought the American Dream within reach of 1,000 families in Yuma County.

The nonprofit self-help housing organization recently presented nine completed homes to families from Somerton. And one of those enabled the Somerton-based corporation reach a milestone.

"We are very happy to be presenting house number 1,000 to Ana Delia Silva. We feel proud for her, because this is what it's all about, helping families. They (the families) are our main concern," said Laurie Gail Senko, executive director of HAC.

The corporation's Self Help Program is designed for moderate- to low-income families to secure financing and construction skills to build homes of their own in San Luis, Ariz., and Wellton.

"Normally, they go through a pre-qualification process, they have to attend some classes to help them administer their new house, among other things," said Enrique O. Marquez, an HAC adviser.

After delivering a plaque to Silva as the 1,000th client, Somerton Justice of the Peace Jorge Lozano, chairman of the HAC board of directors, offered some words to those in attendance.

"It is a proud moment for us to present house number 1,000. This has been possible in a span of 10 years, six of which I have served on the board of directors of HAC. We are here to help you (the corporation's staff). If you have problems with your house, don't hesitate to call us," said Lozano.

The families received the plaques and keys to their homes after each house was inspected by Brad C. Dierdof, self-help area specialist from HAC.