Thanks to Habitat for Humanity and United States Sugar Corporation, two Hendry County families are now proud homeowners. On September 4 Benjamin and Keisha Hernandez and Sara Hinojosa each received the keys to their homes, which they acquired through a lot of “sweat equity” and brotherly love.

New homeowners are Benjamin and Keisha Hernandez, children Jocelyn, eight, Jelena Hernandez, four, and baby Benjamin 1 year 9 months, along with Keisha’s grandparents, and Sara Hinojosa with 18-year-old son, Marvin Hinojosa.

“US Sugar is committed to the community, and I feel privileged to be part of that effort. It was truly an honor to be one of the 60 US Sugar volunteers who worked on these homes. Witnessing these hard-working families set goals and realize their dreams was an inspiration. We all look forward to what’s next for these amazing people. It was also a sweet surprise to learn that US Sugar is the first corporate sponsor for Habitat Homes in Hendry County.” – Bianca Ross, Director of Community Relations

“This was a great opportunity for our Company to support the community and give back to families that were so deserving. Our employees who

Pictured from left: Bianca Ross, Benjamin Hernandez (dad) with baby Benjamin (1 year 9 months), Keisha’s grandparents, Jocelyn Hernandez (8) Keisha Hernandez (mom), Jelena Hernandez (4) and Matt Kindermann. (Submitted photo)[/caption]

volunteered did so on their own time and very much appreciated getting together with co-workers outside of the workplace, sweating next to the families that the homes were being built for, and building memories that will last a lifetime.” – Matt Kindermann, Human Resources and Volunteer CoordinatorHabitat currently has 40 homes in Hendry County and plans to continue to build homes in the future in the area. Two additional homes are in the works for next fiscal year, which starts October 1.