Volunteers from Villanova University took part in the groundbreaking of Pope Leo Village, a 26-home Habitat for Humanity project in North Philadelphia that is part of a broader national initiative, writes Maggie Prosser for The Philadelphia Inquirer.
Funding for the project came from an anonymous donor inspired by the first American-born pontiff, who has taken part in similar efforts, helping build or renovate hundreds of homes across the country. About a dozen volunteers from the pope’s alma mater began work on two homes along North Hollywood Street on Saturday.
Pope Leo XIV’s “life and witness remind us that our beliefs must always lead us outward to serve, to accompany, to advocate for the dignity of every person,” said Villanova’s president, the Rev. Peter M. Donohue during the groundbreaking ceremony.
Wildcat volunteers said it was an honor to bring their Villanova education and Augustinian values to life through this project.
“Giving a family an opportunity to have somewhere they can call their own is something that’s really special, and it’s a unique opportunity that we’re able to contribute to,” said student Ana Mamola.
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