MEDIA, Pa. (KYW Newsradio) — Officials in Delaware County are honoring the late President Jimmy Carter in a unique way, using his humanitarian work outside of politics to help build a better future for affordable housing.
Philip Welch, director of housing and community development for Delaware County, says visitors to the government center complex will now see a door standing inside commemorating the work Carter did with the nonprofit Habitat for Humanity.
“The door is sort of the symbol of homeownership, or home opportunities, that Jimmy Carter fought so hard for all to have,” said Welch. “Jimmy Carter was a fierce advocate for affordable housing and housing for all.”
While the door is on display there, members of the public may write messages on it to remember the 39th president.
It also represents the county’s continuation of that affordable housing work.
“Delaware County is working towards providing as many resources as possible for not only homeownership but also home stabilization,” Welch said. And a big part of that plan is the Whole Home Repair program, he added. That program uses state and county funds in a partnership with Habitat.
“We are looking to stabilize no less than 120 households with, approximately, up to $50,000 worth of needed rehabilitation funds.”
Late next week, the memorial will move to Montgomery County, where residents there may also pay homage to the late president.