476 South Worcester Street, Norton

In March 2005, 476 South Worcester Street in Norton became a permanent haven for Donna Widak, a single mother of four who had spent years searching for affordable housing. The new four-bedroom raised ranch offered her family the stability they had longed for, transforming their lives through the efforts of Old Colony Habitat for Humanity. This home was the second of three built on six acres donated by the town of Norton, which carefully balanced the need for affordable housing with preserving the character of the neighborhood. The project was a true community effort, with volunteers and in-kind donations keeping the total cost at $100,000. Donna’s mortgage was adjusted to ensure affordability, underscoring Habitat’s mission to provide manageable housing solutions for families in need. For the Widak family, the completion of this home signified the end of constant moves and the beginning of a stable, hopeful future. It shows the strength of community partnerships and shared determination to make affordable housing a reality.