Habitat dedicates new East Hampton home for veteran and son

Habitat for Humanity of Long Island dedicated a newly built home in East Hampton this week for a U.S. Marine veteran and his son.

The new home on Thomas Avenue is the new residence for Matt and his son Jackson, who were formerly living in an inadequate basement apartment.

“Partnering with Habitat Long Island will enable us to stay in the same community and put down roots,” said Matt, who for the past 12 years has worked for The East Hampton Star. “Being a single parent, stability for my son has been my number one priority. I view owning a home as the ultimate milestone in reaching stability. The word family resonates with me. Family helps and supports each other. I am so grateful for the opportunity to be part of the Habitat family.”

Matt and Jackson will fulfill 300 hours of “sweat equity,” helping to build their home and houses for others in the program. In addition, they will go through financial preparation classes and volunteer for community service. Each homeowner will sign a 30-year mortgage with two percent interest, with Habitat for Humanity of Long Island holding a second mortgage.

The East Hampton home is the culmination of Habitat of Long Island’s 2022 Veteran Blitz Build, a program co-sponsored by PSEG Long Island and build partner Ben Krupinski Builder with support from H.B. Millwork, Ned Stevens Gutter Cleaning, Palermo Paving, Quackenbush Cesspools, Window World and other subcontractors to complete the project.

Ray Harden of Ben Krupinski Builder, with fellow principal Stratton Schellinger, grew up in the area and donated their company’s time and expertise to oversee the home’s construction. 

“Building this house means Matt can continue to afford to live and work in the Town of East Hampton, where he grew up and to see his son grow up here too,” Harden said. “We are proud to partake in such an important local project and for such an upstanding member of our community. We appreciate the hard work of all who worked with us and alongside the Habitat team to make this happen.”

Lee Silberman, CEO and executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Long Island said veterans deserve all the support our community can give. 

“The Veterans Blitz Build program, which lets us build unique partnerships with builders, sponsors, and volunteer groups, accelerates completion of new-build projects like this one. This dedication celebrates the completion of our 236th home on Long Island, and we hope to build another home for a veteran in the future.”