LAWRENCE — Three families who lost their homes during a devastating fire more than a year ago had their new homes blessed last week.
Gathered in the common area, those attending responded, "We dedicate these homes, O Lord," in Spanish, as Margot Bixby, president of the board of Merrimack Valley Habitat for Humanity, prayed.
The Rev. Anne Broyles, faith relations coordinator for Habitat, blessed the homes at 382, 390 and 392 Market St.
Felix and Ruth Reyes moved into their 382 Market St. home April 4. The Mbiye and the Sanchez-Rios families will occupy their homes at 390 and 392 Market St., respectively, later this summer or early fall, said Larry Sharp, Habitat executive director.
Each family received baskets filled with household or gardening items donated by board members.
At the event, volunteers and sponsors were lauded for their contributions to the project.
— Yadira Betance
