Merck Hammers Away Homelessness in Hatfield at United Way Day of Caring

Merck is one company that wants to give rather than take.
Employees from the Upper Gwynedd pharmaceutical giant volunteered Wednesday to hammer away homelessness by aiding in the construction of a twin home at 144 Penn Ave. in Hatfield Borough.
"We've got a group of 15 from Merck with us, and I can't express it enough: They are the most important cog in the wheel for Habitat for Humanity," said Steve Fisher, director of construction for Habitat for Humanity Montgomery County. "Without volunteers, it would be impossible for us to complete our mission, which is providing safe, decent and affordable homes."
Habitat for Humanity, in working with a local real estate agent, purchased a vacant lot on Penn Avenue, after negotiating a price, Fisher said. Habitat for Humanity went through the permitting process, and now a part of its Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative is coming to life. Earlier in the day, Habitat for Humanity offered a branch of kindness to another home on Main Street in Hatfield, whose homeowner was physically unable to do maintenance of his home.
Habitat for Humanity and Merck were helping put a roof over the head of one Indian gentleman who was helping out at the site.
"You have to perform sweat equity to live here," Fisher said, "in lieu of a down payment."
Fisher said those in need of homes contact Habitat for Humanity and enter through the housing process. He said Habitat offers eligible homeowners a zero percent interest mortgage.
"We don't give handouts," he said. "We give a leg up."
Each two-story twin features three bedrooms, one-and-a-half baths, kitchen, living room, dining room and laundry room, Fisher said. Construction at 144 Penn Ave. began in August and will be completed by Dec. 15.
Volunteers will be working on the home daily between Wednesday and Saturday.
"We are seeking individuals to volunteer," Fisher said.
Fisher said a lot of organizations contact Habitat for Humanity to help out in its mission. North Penn United Way was one such organization recently.
"It all works," Fisher said. "Things are going very good today. It's a great job. I have the opportunity to work every day with people that want to give rather than take."
Merck employees were not allowed to comment on their experiences Wednesday.