Habitat for Humanity builds green homes

Two New Haven families moved into their new homes thanks to the Habitat for Humanity. It's the first 'green' homes that Habitat has built in New Haven.

High praise from Pedro Castro now that his family's long long journey to home ownership is finally over.

"Wonderful, a dream come true," Pedro said.

Yale New Haven Hospital and the non-profit Madison Cares helped Habitat for Humanity with the build, donating time and materials.

The houses on Wilson Street are the 63rd and 64th Habitat has built in the greater New Haven area since 1986.

"It's an incredible experience because we work with our staff, we work with the homeowners, it's wonderful, it's great fun," said Susan Lagarde, a physician at Yale.

"It was tremendous. And especially seeing today how happy they are and how important this was; the things we take for granted. It was a great experience," said Richard D'Aquila, COO, Yale-New Haven Hospital.

Builders used almost all recycled materials and installed energy efficient light bulbs and appliances in both homes.

"Green is not only the right thing to do for the environment and the right way to build homes, but also making them energy efficient and easier to maintain for the families helps them for many years we hope that they'll be here," said Mike Macgire, President, Madison Cares.