10 April, 2002
Ford Managers Help Construct Home For Auckland Family
Twelve Ford managers gave up a day of their time this week to help build a house that will become the home of a South
Auckland family.
The Habitat for Humanity project, which is based in Auckland's Aotea Square and has enlisted support such as that
provided by Ford from more than 20 companies, is the 146th house built through the efforts of the organisation.
"This is a fantastic opportunity to support a worthy cause and also contribute directly to the well-being of a family
from our immediate area," said the Managing Director of Ford New Zealand, Nigel Harris.
"Our combined efforts will make a real difference to the Cardona family, and I also know that all managers who have
participated in the project have benefited from and enjoyed the experience."
Habitat for Humanity coordinates the construction of homes for people in substandard or overcrowded accommodation, who
want but cannot afford a house of their own.
It also enlists the recipients of constructed houses to commit 500 hours of their own 'sweat equity' into other similar
projects, as well as repay an interest free mortgage over 15 years.
"A deposit on a house is often out of the reach of a lot of people, and it is heartening to know that opportunities
exist through Habitat for Humanity for people to attain the dream of owning their own house," said Mr. Harris.
Ford also donated a 'drive and escape' weekend to Habitat for Humanity as an incentive to encourage other corporations
to participate in the event.