CORNWALL, Ontario – The 5 Bedford residence of Monique Miles-Ladouceur was abuzz with activity this Saturday, Jan. 20, as she burned her mortgage in celebration of becoming mortgage-free homeowner.
Miles-Ladouceur contributed countless hours of sweat equity in place of a traditional down payment and in just 17 years, was able to repay an interest-free mortgage through Habitat for Humanity and Cornwall & the Counties.
In attendance were MP Guy Lauzon, MPP Jim McDonell, and city councillor, Justin Towndale, and the newest recipient of the Habitat home – the Pinard family.
Miles-Ladouceur took a moment to reflect on memories made within the home, wishing the young family many happy years in their home.
“To the Pinard family, I’m sure you will make many memories, as my family did in our home,” said Miles-Ladouceur. “People think having a Habitat home is free – it’s not. I’m very proud to say I paid my mortgage in full by myself.”
“You built us a house, but we made it a home,” concluded Miles-Ladouceur.
Daughter, Carine Rodgers thanked Habitat for giving her family the greatest gift of all, but noted that not everyone was as lucky.
“Everyone deserves a safe and affordable place to call home,” said Rodgers. “As we celebrate Monique’s success, let us not forget there are still so many who are struggling. This opportunity is not a hand-out, but a hand up.”
