Sailors Volunteer with Habitat for Humanity During Fleet Week Port Everglades

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Leah Stiles, Navy Public Affairs Support Element Detachment Southeast

April 28, 2010 - PORT EVERGLADES, Fla. (NNS) -- Sailors from guided-missile frigate USS Halyburton (FFG 40) volunteered their time for a good cause at a Habitat for Humanity project April 28, as part of the 20th Anniversary Fleet Week Port Everglades.

Habitat for Humanity, a nonprofit organization that builds homes for people in need, was established to help eradicate homelessness throughout the U.S.

"I really enjoy helping out in the community," said Electronics Technician 2nd Class (SW) Matt Jackson.

"It's a great feeling knowing that I can make a difference."

Sailors spent the day installing insulation, tiling, digging and painting the interior and exterior of several houses.

"The experience is worth it. I have volunteered with about twelve community relation projects throughout the world because I really enjoy the feeling of helping out," said Gunner's Mate 2nd Class David Hernandez.

Qualification for the program is dependent upon the level of the family's need, willingness to become a Habitat for Humanity partner and ability to repay the no-profit, no-interest loan.

"We love having the Sailors out here because they are very excited to come in and volunteer with us," said Mary Lou Bowman Cubbin, director of construction for Habitat for Humanity. "As I have chatted with some of the folks that are with us today, they volunteer with a number of different agencies back in their homeports. So I think it is really great for us and great for them to be out here today."

The event was held as part of the 20th anniversary of Fleet Week Port Everglades, which started April 26 and will last through May 3.