Reported By: Kelley Dunn
Even though the housing bubble has popper and home prices have come down---finding "true" affordable housing is difficult in this area.
For some of the poorest people...the only hope is "In The Pines."
This week's hero is one of the reasons for its success.
It's not as quiet as a library--but plenty of reading and studying gets done here every afternoon.
This is the "help with homework" program--one of the many free services for the children of "In The Pines."
It's a non-profit organization that provides safe, clean affordably priced housing for farm workers.
Jerry Goray is the volunteer president.
Jerry Goray: "Farm worker families in Palm Beach County are a neglected and under served segment of our working population."
Sadly, substandard housing is nothing new to farm workers--but since 1978 "In The Pines" has been helping to change that.
Rent here is as low as $250 a month and only goes up to $575 dollars.
Silvia Sanchez and her family have lived here for 3 years.
Silvia Sanchez: "Each of the kids has his own bedroom and it's comfortable inside--it's wonderful you live very well."
And the pride residents take in their homes---shows.
It's a dream come true for many farm worker families who don't often have many options.
Kelley Dunn: "Where would these families be if it wasn't for "In The Pines?"
Jerry Goray: "They would be living in trailers or cement block shacks in fields on 441 and Belle Glade. It's despicable and there are many examples of that housing there."
In The Pines has become an oasis for farm workers--a place where they can hope for a future.
Jerry Goray: "We encourage home ownership..and 5% of everyone's rent we contribute to a down payment on a new home if they are able to find a place to live...we've had several families receive it..we've given them checks to help with their down payment."
Success stories are everywhere ---including the front office.
Lisette lived here as a child--got an education and is now the office manager at "In The Pines."
Thanks to dozens of generous donors who's names are proudly displayed---an incredibly active board and devoted volunteers..."In The Pines" is a example of what good community partnerships can accomplish.
Jerry Goray: "It's very gratifying to see families to learn to lift themselves up and improve their lot in life..whether through educations, jobs or culturally--to become better assimilated without losing their heritage."
Jerry Goray--this week's Kelley's hero.
RELATED INFORMATION
In The Pines
16101 Half Mile Rd., Bldg. G
Delray Beach, Fl. 33446
(561) 495-0089
E-MAIL: inthepines@bellsouth.net
