Habitat@York wins building award second year in a row

Dena Winick
Staff Writer
The members of York University’s Habitat for Humanity sacrificed their reading week to participate in a building project, earning the prestigious Golden Hard Hat trophy for the second year in a row for raising the most money to help out families in need.
Alicia Bunyan-Sampson, vp of internal affairs, explained the campus coalition reading week building project allowed York students to participate in building 12 houses in Scarborough – specifically in the Morningside and Kingston Road area.
“This being my first year, it means a lot to me that I was able to be a part of something so amazing,” said Bunyan-Sampson. “I think it’s really powerful that Habitat for Humanity is able to get students to come out and selflessly dedicate their time.”
Bunyan-Sampson confessed that she had no experience in construction or building of any kind before getting involved with Habitat@York.
“I was really nervous about it because all I kept on thinking was that this is someone’s house, [that] this is going to be somebody’s room,” she said. “I know how much I love my house and my room so I better do an amazing job through this build.”
“[They were] supportive and patient with all volunteers, so my fear went away almost as soon as I got on site. It was a great experience and I don’t think I will ever stop doing builds with Habitat For Humanity.”
Those interested in getting involved can contact the group at habitatyork@gmail.com.