2009 News

October 8, 2009

Commissioners Cut Ribbon on Interfaith Housing Development Corporation Home in Bristol Township

With fresh grass and a hydrangea bush framing the proceedings this morning, Bucks County Commissioners Charles H. Martin, chairman, James F. Cawley, Esq. and Diane M. Ellis-Marseglia, LCSW joined representatives of the Interfaith Housing Development Corporation (IHDC) to cut the ribbon on a 1,600-square foot home in Bristol Township. The three-bedroom, two-and-a-half bath residence is located on Marie Lowe Dr., near an enclave of previously completed projects through the IHDC.

“Interfaith (Housing Development Corporation) has done some fine work on behalf of the low and moderate income residents of Bucks County,” Chairman Martin stated during opening remarks.

Commissioner Ellis-Marseglia seconded the chairman’s thoughts, also mentioning how important affordable housing is in today’s difficult economic climate.

Chairman Martin and Commissioner Ellis-Marseglia joined Interfaith President Gary A. Evans, Executive Director Chris Auth and Millard Mitchell to cut the ribbon on the home, which is currently on the market for prospective buyers. Commissioner Cawley joined the group for a tour of the home, which includes hardwood floors, a full unfinished basement and ceiling fans.

Founded in 1987, the IHDC’s stated mission statement is “to provide housing for sale or rent to low income and homeless families and to assist them in becoming self-sufficient.” Since 1993, the Board of Bucks County Commissioners has supported IHDC’s mission through Community Development funding. IHDC has a goal of building 50 houses over the next three years. Each Commissioner received a plaque thanking them for their ongoing efforts.

Just how important is affordable housing to the local economy? According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, 41 percent of Bucks County renters are unable to afford a two-bedroom, market-rate apartment ($932 per month). For more information about the IHDC and its programs, please visit the organization’s Web site, www.ihdcbc.org.