Habitat for Humanity hosts Blitz Build

MIAMI (WSVN) -- Volunteers from across South Florida rolled up their sleeves to help build homes for a good cause.

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Miami began its annual Blitz Build, Saturday.

Almost 200 volunteers from across South Florida helped build homes in the Liberty City neighborhood of Miami. "Blitz Build 2012, which we are celebrating here at Habitat Oaks, is an accelerated construction event in which we complete 10 homes in two weeks," said Mario Artecona, CEO of Habitat for Humanity.

The homes are built for those who may otherwise never get a chance to experience the American dream of home ownership. Roslyn Israel and her family will be living in the home sponsored by WSVN. " I just appreciate them, thank them for what they have done and what they are doing now, especially you guys, Channel 7," said Israel.

In the 15th year of Habitat for Humanity's Blitz Build, there are some special volunteers from across the pond helping out. "I'm from France, from the south of France," said one volunteer.

Six female college students from France are taking three months off from school to help build homes in Miami. "Our school is sending us here to help people and try to improve the community," said Heloise Vialle.

The French students are learning a lot while spending time helping out communities in need. "On several nights, it's a party, luxury and night club, and here it's poverty, and it's a really strange look close," said one of the students.

All of the volunteers in the Blitz Build are making the most out of the experience taking away a great life lesson. "It's a fantastic example that in order to improve yourself you have to help others," said volunteer Leonore Azzoprode.

Blitz Build is going on through Feb. 18., but the French contingent will be out in Liberty City building homes for another two months.

If you would like to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties, visit the websites linked above.

Channel 7 is a proud sponsor of Habitat for Humanity.

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