Habitat Home for Gulf Coast Family Dedicated
Partnership represents historic first for the region
The Sorority made history when it became the first organization of its kind to build a home for a Hurricane Katrina-displaced South Mississippi family. The historic effort, which is part of the Sorority’s international program, is made possible through a partnership with Habitat for Humanity Gulf Coast.
The dedication of the home took place Tuesday, July 17, 2007, in Gulfport, MS. The new residents are Katina and Raynard Willis and their six children, who are currently living in a three-bedroom apartment with only one bathroom.
The family, which was uprooted and temporarily displaced, has struggled to regain a "normal" life since the hurricane. Despite the challenges, the hard-working couple—who are employed as a forklift operator and a substitute teacher respectively—has kept the family stable. Under their guidance, the children, who range in age from 8-19, are active in the Boys and Girls Club of the Gulf Coast and participate in various school activities.
Katina Willis expressed appreciation to the Sorority for its generosity. "I am overwhelmed and humbled by Alpha Kappa Alpha's and Habitat for Humanity's generosity. Everyone has played a role in building this house, and Raynard and I are overcome with gratitude. The children are also very happy, and we look forward to starting life anew thanks to Alpha Kappa Alpha and Habitat for Humanity."
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