Editor:

We are so fortunate to live in a wonderful community that comes together to make life better for one another. We experienced this most recently on Aug. 23 when The Sandspur Band donated their time and talents for a benefit concert, with proceeds helping to construct a Habitat for Humanity home in Foley. United Methodist congregations contributed delicious desserts to a bake sale, and the community enjoyed a special evening at the new Spirit Center at Foley United Methodist  Church.

I am pleased to report that over $4,000 was raised during that one event for the 2009 Habitat for Humanity Baypines District United Methodist Build. Through this concert and bake sale, as well as other events and generous giving throughout the year, $45,000 in funds and in-kind donations has been raised to build a home for 83-year-old Jessie Mabon, her daughter Mona Lisa and grandson Jermaine Mabon.

Thank you to Gulf Coast Newspapers for helping us to make a difference in our community by getting the word out about the concert and this build.

The Mabons’ new home is being constructed at 1700 S. Oak St. in Foley, at the corner of S. Oak and W.  5th Ave.. We have begun framing the house, and volunteers are needed every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday for the next six to eight weeks. To volunteer, call Denise Simms, volunteer coordinator, at 251-943-7268.

Thank you to our community, and God bless each and every one of you.

Keith Bradford

Steering Committee Chair

Baypines District, United Methodist Church Habitat for Humanity Build