Habitat for Humanity MetroWest Greater Worcester (HFHMWGW) is pleased to announce that the full replacement value of the equipment recently stolen from their build site in Wayland has been restored. On September 18th, the Habitat team and volunteers arrived at the worksite on Stonebridge Road to discover that someone had broken into the construction trailer overnight and stolen a significant number of tools and equipment.  “Naturally we were shocked and disheartened to learn that we had been a victim of theft.  But, we have been overwhelmed by the generosity of the citizens and businesses in Wayland.  It has truly been heartwarming to see the response.” said Tim Firment, HFHMWGW Executive Director. “Not only did we receive numerous cash donations from the community, but one of our local business partners, Middlesex Savings Bank stepped up in a big way to help cover the cost of replacing the stolen tools.”

With the help of local media, HFHMWGW immediately got the word out about the break and what items needed to be replaced.  According to PJ Breen, the Wayland site supervisor, an air compressor was one of the items removed during the theft.  “Within a day, local resident James Blanchard, who had heard about our loss, contacted the supply house at E.M. Duggan Inc. where he works and brought us a brand new compressor.”  

The Habitat site on Stonebridge Road was donated by the town to promote affordable workforce housing in Wayland.  Consisting of a cluster of four units in two structures abutting conservation land,  the build has attracted  hands-on participation by more than 1000 MetroWest volunteers.  The first phase of the build is nearing completion and Habitat is planning a house warming/ribbon cutting in late November.  “Our mission is to build homes, communities and hope. With the strong leadership of town officials and the outpouring of support from the people of Wayland we have been able to accomplish that” Firment said.