Hempstead Town Supervisor Kate Murray and Councilwoman Dorothy Goosby were pleased to officiate a lottery for the latest phase of the town's extremely successful Affordable Homes Program.

"The Affordable Homes Program makes the dream of owning a home a reality for first time homebuyers," noted Murray. "It is wonderful to see the joy on people's faces when they hear their names selected to own a brand new home."

Phase 10 of the town's Affordable Homes Program consists of 11 newly constructed spacious homes in Roosevelt. Consideration is first given to residents of the school district where the homes are to be built. Second priority is given to other residents living within the unincorporated areas of the Town of Hempstead. It is then opened up to residents living in villages within the Town of Hempstead, then those living anywhere in Nassau County and finally those who live outside the county. Eligibility is based on family size and total family income. These guidelines are established by Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

More than 35 people originally applied for these affordable homes and 25 were deemed eligible.

"It is such a pleasure to be able to help these families in their quest to own a home," said Goosby. "I know that these men and women will be great neighbors in a great community."

Utilizing federal funding, the Town of Hempstead has developed more than 200 homes through its Affordable Homes Program. In addition to these 11 homes being offered in this phase of the program, the town is moving forward with plans to build three new affordable homes in Inwood.

"In addition to having a profoundly positive impact on the new homeowners, these new homes help enhance our neighborhoods and keep them vibrant," concluded Murray.

Charmaine Cooper of West Hempstead was chosen to receive a newly constructed, spacious home in Roosevelt as part of the Town's Affordable Homes Lottery.

Phase 9 of the Affordable Homes Program was completed in October and included eight spacious colonial buildings, priced at $139,500 and containing 1,800 square feet of living space.