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Habitat for Humanity pulled double duty in Suffolk this week.

Habitat was not only carrying out its usual mission to provide safe, affordable housing for everyone who needs it; the organization also was honoring heroes who have been on the front lines of health and safety throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and, really, even before that.

The Frontline Heroes Build Week for Habitat for Humanity of South Hampton Roads recognized military and veterans, law enforcement, firefighters, health care workers, emergency medical services and other essential workers. These vital workers not only were honored but also helped build a home for a local, low-income family.

Shaquita Outlaw, a single mother of two boys, 3 and 5, and also guardian of her 2-year-old sister, will be the new homeowner. She grew up in the neighborhood, and her grandmother reported on Friday that she is very grateful for the blessing of a new, affordable, safe home for herself and the children in her care.

Habitat for Humanity has built 237 homes since 1988 for deserving families who need a place to live that is affordable, safe and sanitary. Families who move into Habitat homes must be able to pay a mortgage, contribute to the construction of their own home as well as other Habitat homes, and meet other qualifications. As such, a Habitat home truly is an investment in families and community.

The Outlaw home should be finished by the end of the year, but substantial progress was made this week by the many volunteers on site.

We thank Habitat for Humanity for its investment in our community, and the honorees and volunteers who participated not only for their help in building this home but also what they do every day to help keep us safe.