Toolbox Bash Blesses Local Family with New Home

Party light adorned the stables at Fort Concho Saturday night for Habitat for Humanity’s Annual Toolbox Bash.

Arkansas horseshoes, construction Plinko, a nailgun shooting gallery and washer toss were some of games attendees could play to earn construction nails. The nails were used as credits in part of the live auction that also helped to raise thousands of dollars benefiting local projects. The ensuing silent auction was filled with items donated by local businesses and area residents.

A seated dinner was prepared by the Texas Baptist Men with dessert by Halfmann’s Cake Cottage. Meals were served by Goodfellow Air Force Base volunteers, and washed down with help from A-B Distributors and Pinkie’s Liquors.

“This is our ninth year for Toolbox Bash," said Dorothy Noriega of Habitat for Humanity. "Every year we are sold out, including this year. The money raised here will stay here in San Angelo and helps to build a new home for a local family.”

Habitat for Humanity was founded in Georgia in 1976. The local chapter has been helping build homes in San Angelo for many years now, changing the lives of families forever by offering affordable housing to those that qualify.

 Habitat for Humanity broke ground on such a home at 510 E. Harris Ave. Sunday afternoon. Renee Patterson, the future homeowner, worked the door at the Toolbox Bash, and is looking forward to hammering the first nail into the frame of her home.

“Without this type of help, it would be relatively impossible for me to pay a mortage," Patterson said. "I am beyond thankful.” 

Patterson and her two teenaged sons will work alongside volunteers during construction. The estimated completion date is slated for mid-June. Habitat for Humanity is able to build homes quickly with community support.

The Patterson house is the first home sponsored by an area group known as the '100 Women Build'. One hundred women have come together to donate funds and manpower, giving back to the community, and building houses.

Chairwomen Judy Sikes and Libby Mims were on hand for the groundbreaking.

“We could not be any happier to be involved with Habitat for Humanity for such a deserving cause,” said Mims. “We hope to do many more of these in the near future.”

For more information about Habitat for Humanity and 100 Women Build visit www.habitatsanangelo.org