THOROLD – Through the unwavering support of their strong network of suppliers and subtrades, Centennial Homes proudly completed construction on four townhomes in Thorold for Habitat for Humanity Niagara – at no cost to the charity.
This impactful collaboration was ignited by a shared passion for giving back when Centennial Homes’ Founder and President, Domenic DiLalla, connected with Habitat Niagara CEO, Mark Carl, to explore how they could make a real difference – and they delivered in a big way.
A heartfelt key ceremony was held at the homes, where guests were passed around the keys, sharing their best wishes and blessings for the new homeowners as they embarked on their exciting journey into homeownership.
“This certainly is a day to celebrate because it’s more than a donation; it’s a game-changer for Habitat Niagara and the families in our region,” said Mark. “Centennial Homes and their partners didn’t just build four townhomes – they’ve created a legacy of home, opportunity, and a brighter future for four local families.”
This initiative was a natural extension of Centennial Homes’ dedication to their community, a commitment recognized when they were named Company of the Year in 2023 by the Niagara Home Builders’ Association, further cementing their reputation as community leaders.
“I am both humbled and honoured by the opportunity for our company to make a meaningful impact on the lives of these families,” said Domenic. “As a father, it is incredibly rewarding to know that these children will have a safe, nurturing environment to grow and call home. We would like to extend special thanks to Mark Carl and his team at Habitat. Mark is a true leader who has surrounded himself with individuals deeply committed to the well-being of our community. My family is profoundly grateful to everyone involved, as well as to the entire Niagara region, for their continued support over the past four decades.”
The journey began with a groundbreaking event in late April of last year, and from that moment, it was all systems go. Centennial rallied their network and the response was overwhelming. Everyone jumped in wholeheartedly to support the cause: providing safe, decent and affordable homes for families right here in our community.
Four families, all single parents with children, were selected – each dreaming of the stability and security that comes with having a safe, affordable home to call their own.
Habitat for Humanity Niagara doesn’t simply give away homes. Families chosen for its homeownership program must demonstrate a need for better housing, complete 500 volunteer hours and pay an affordable mortgage. These mortgage payments are reinvested back to Habitat Niagara’s ‘fund for humanity’, fueling the construction of more homes and helping even more families across Niagara achieve affordable homeownership.
Once families are selected, Habitat partners with the homebuyers to prepare them for the responsibilities of homeownership through workshops on budgeting, home maintenance and other essential skills.
Habitat’s path to homeownership is a meaningful and comprehensive process that demands hard work, time and dedication – laying the foundation for the long-term success of Habitat homeowners.
The meaningful partnership with Centennial Homes, its subtrades and suppliers exemplifies how these businesses have helped families build strength, stability and independence through affordable homeownership.
Together, they’ve not only built houses – they’ve built brighter futures.
Habitat for Humanity Niagara would like to thank Centennial Homes for spearheading this initiative, and their list of suppliers and subtrades: All-Pro Plumbing and Heating, The Bamco Group, Bosco Roofing, Burnstein Brick, Decast, Emco Corporation, Espro High Definition Painting, Emporium Carpet & Flooring, Fleming Windows & Mirrors Ltd., J.D. Barnes Ltd., Jeld-Wen, Lafarge, Leon’s Furniture, Maletta Realty Inc., Maplewood Stairs & Railings Ltd., MB Construction Inc., McKeough Supply, N.A.C Concrete Design & Construction, Niagara Home Builders’ Association, Noble, Patene Building Supplies, Polstar Masonry Group Ltd., Regional Doors & Hardware, Robins Electric, St. Catharines Building Supplies, Stark Lumber, Stranges Drywall, Superior Cleaning Services. Upper Canada Consulting, Waldeck Group Inc., Walker, Walls by Walls and Yvon Insulation.
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About Habitat for Humanity Niagara
Habitat for Humanity Niagara is a non-profit organization that brings our community together to help families build strength, stability and independence through safe and affordable homeownership. With the help of volunteers and generous donors, Habitat Niagara builds decent and affordable homes that provide a solid foundation for people to build better, healthier lives. Established locally in 1993, Habitat Niagara has constructed 79 homes in Niagara, serving 86 families and creating stable and secure housing for over 290 children.
Habitat for Humanity Niagara proudly owns and operates three local ReStores in Fonthill, Grimsby and St. Catharines. Habitat for Humanity ReStore is a social enterprise retailer that accepts and resells donations of new and used furniture, appliances, décor, home improvement items and building materials. All proceeds from operations fund Habitat for Humanity Niagara and help build homes in the community for those in need of a safe place to call home.
For more information, please visit www.habitatniagara.ca
Dawn Marie Cavasin
Habitat for Humanity Niagara, Manager, Communications and Media Relations
Office: 905-685-7395 x406
Direct: 289-813-4883
dawn@habitatniagara.ca