“The House that CHEP Built” was dedicated today as volunteers from CHEP, the global leader in pallet and container pooling solutions, gathered with the future homeowner and leaders from the Habitat for Humanity Orlando affiliate. The home was funded by CHEP and 128 of the company’s employees and their families contributed more than 1,050 hours helping with construction, painting and other chores.
The new home was built for Dolly Castillo, a single mother with three daughters. Two of her daughters are disabled so the home includes features that will make caring for the girls easier, including a ramp. Castillo, who formerly lived in government housing, worked hundreds of “sweat equity” volunteer hours, which is required for families desiring a Habitat home. She worked both at the home site and at Habitat for Humanity Orlando’s office to help earn an interest-free mortgage.
“On behalf of the Castillo family and our team at Habitat for Humanity Orlando, I want to thank CHEP USA for sponsoring this house and thank the many CHEP volunteers and their families for helping make this dream come true,” said Dee Danmeyer, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity Orlando.
The project broke ground on September 24, 2007, and CHEP construction volunteers worked at the site on six dates starting with the wall raising on October 13, 2007. The Castillo family moved into the house yesterday, Valentine’s Day.
“We are proud of our employees and the work they’ve done to help this worthy cause. CHEP is a community-oriented company and we believe organizations like Habitat for Humanity deserve our support,” said Mike Lamb, President of CHEP USA.
In addition to the Habitat for Humanity Orlando project, under the CHEP Cares program, CHEP and its associates have raised more than $18,000 for the American Heart Association, over $6,000 to America’s Second Harvest Food Bank, nearly $5,000 for Toys for Tots and $18,000 for the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer, all since July 1, 2007.
About Habitat for Humanity Orlando
Habitat Orlando brings together families in need and volunteers of all faiths, in partnership with community resources, to enhance lives by building homes, strengthening neighborhoods and improving our community. If interested in donating time, treasures or talents, please visit www.habitat-orlando.org.
About CHEP
CHEP is the global leader in pallet and container pooling services serving many of the world's largest companies. The company has more than 7,700 employees and operates in 44 countries. Combining superior technology and an asset base of more than 280 million pallets and containers, CHEP offers its customers exceptional value, a platform that enables reduction in customer product damage, and an environmentally sustainable logistical solution. Supply chains served include consumer goods, produce, beverage, and the automotive industry. With global partners that include Procter & Gamble, SYSCO, Kellogg's, Kraft, Nestle, Ford and GM, CHEP is known for Handling the World's Most Important Products. Everyday. For more information about CHEP, please visit: www.chep.com.