Media Coverage
Habitat looking for women to build ramp
By Steve Marcotte The Gardner News
May 01, 2009 WESTMINSTER — An all-women construction crew is working next week to help a single mother build a wheelchair ramp for her 12-year-old daughter.
Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts is still seeking volunteers to work on the project Thursday, according to Meg Bagdonas, director of community relations and volunteers for the nonprofit organization.
Ms. Bagdonas said the young girl has cerebral palsy.
The project on West Main Street is part of National Women Build Week from May 2 to May 10, which includes women volunteers working at Habitat construction sites throughout the United States. Women volunteers worked on a project in Townsend in 2008.
“This is our second year,” Ms. Bagdonas said. “It’s just proven to be extraordinarily popular with our local female population. We’re just excited for it and looking forward to a great day.”
Megan Foley, Habitat’s executive director, said the project is in partnership with Lowe’s Home Improvement.
“We have a crew coming from Lowe’s Home Improvement (to help),” Ms. Foley said.
In a press release, Ms. Foley stated they are “excited to see this project grow” beginning Thursday.
“This is such an empowering project for a group of women working together, especially in the days leading up to Mother’s Day,” she stated in the release.
Though a full crew of 13 volunteers have committed to working May 9, four slots remain open for the build day between 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, according to Ms. Bagdonas, who said people stepped up quickly to donate their time Saturday.
“We were excited to see that,” she said.
Habitat representatives advise volunteers to wear “work” clothes and closed-toe shoes. Tools and materials will be provided for the volunteers.
“This will be a construction site and it won’t be glamorous,” Ms. Foley stated in the press release.
Volunteers can register and sign up through the Habitat Web site at http://www.ncmhabitat.org or call 978-348-2749.